Lee Soon-jae, one of South Korea's most beloved and respected veteran actors, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 91, according to his family. The legendary performer, who dedicated nearly seven decades of his life to the entertainment industry, left behind an extraordinary legacy that spanned theater, television, and film.
Born in 1934 in Hoeryong, which is located in present-day North Korea, Lee's early life was marked by the dramatic changes that swept the Korean Peninsula in the mid-20th century. His family made the difficult decision to relocate to Seoul before the outbreak of the Korean War from 1950 to 1953, a move that would ultimately shape his future career and life in South Korea.
Lee's journey into acting began during his university years at Seoul National University, one of the country's most prestigious institutions. In 1956, he made his theatrical debut with a performance in the play "Beyond the Horizon," marking the beginning of what would become one of the most prolific and enduring careers in Korean entertainment history. This early start laid the foundation for his deep understanding of dramatic arts and his commitment to the craft of acting.
Throughout his remarkable career, Lee established himself as a versatile and accomplished performer, appearing in countless television dramas, feature films, and stage productions. His ability to portray a wide range of characters with depth and authenticity made him a household name across multiple generations of Korean audiences. His work contributed significantly to the development and popularization of Korean entertainment, helping to establish many of the dramatic traditions that continue to influence Korean media today.
In addition to his entertainment career, Lee also ventured into the political arena, demonstrating his commitment to public service. In 1992, he was elected as a member of the National Assembly, representing the then-ruling Democratic Liberal Party. This brief but notable political career showcased his dedication to contributing to Korean society beyond the realm of entertainment, though he would eventually return his focus to acting.
Remarkably, Lee continued to perform well into his later years, maintaining an active presence in the entertainment industry even through his 80s. His dedication to his craft was evident as he continued to take on roles and appear in productions, inspiring younger generations of actors with his work ethic and passion. However, health concerns eventually began to take their toll, and late last year, he was forced to cancel his scheduled play appearances, marking the end of his active performing career.
The news of Lee's passing has sent waves of grief throughout the South Korean entertainment industry and among fans nationwide, as the country mourns the loss of one of its most treasured cultural figures. His death marks the end of an era in Korean entertainment, as he was among the last surviving actors from the golden age of Korean theater and early television. Lee Soon-jae's contributions to Korean arts and culture will be remembered for generations to come, and his influence on the industry will continue to be felt long after his passing.
