Lee Soon-jae, one of South Korea's most beloved and prolific actors, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 91, according to his family. The veteran performer had established himself as one of the country's most respected entertainers over a career spanning more than six decades, appearing in approximately 140 major television dramas alongside numerous films and stage productions.
Born in 1934 in Hoeryong, located in what is now North Korea, Lee's family relocated to Seoul before the outbreak of the Korean War from 1950 to 1953. His journey into acting began during his university years at Seoul National University, where he made his theatrical debut in the play "Beyond the Horizon" in 1956. This marked the beginning of what would become an extraordinary and enduring career in entertainment.
One of Lee's most defining and memorable performances came through his role in the hit family drama "What Is Love?" which aired from 1991 to 1992. The series achieved remarkable success, reaching an impressive 65 percent viewership rating and cementing Lee's reputation for masterfully portraying stern, tradition-bound father figures. This role became iconic and helped establish him as a household name across South Korea.
Throughout his career, Lee took on prominent roles in several major historical dramas that showcased his versatility and dramatic range. Notable performances included his portrayal of the principled physician Yoo Ui-tae in the acclaimed series "Hur Jun" in 1999. He also appeared in other significant historical productions such as "Sangdo" in 2001 and "Lee San" in 2007, demonstrating his ability to bring depth and authenticity to period characters.
Remarkably, even in his 70s, Lee continued to expand his acting range and connect with new audiences through his work in popular sitcoms. He appeared in "High Kick!" in 2006 and "High Kick Through the Roof" in 2009, where his comedic performances earned him a completely new generation of fans who appreciated his lighter, more humorous side. These roles proved his remarkable adaptability as a performer and his ability to evolve with changing entertainment trends.
Beyond traditional acting roles, Lee also ventured into reality television, appearing in the popular travel reality program "Grandpas Over Flowers." This show further endeared him to audiences and showcased his personality outside of scripted performances. Additionally, Lee briefly entered politics, successfully winning election as a lawmaker in 1992 as a member of the then-ruling Democratic Liberal Party.
Lee's dedication to his craft remained unwavering throughout his later years. He continued acting well into his 80s, maintaining an active performance schedule until late last year. His longevity and continued excellence in the field were recognized when he became the oldest recipient of the KBS Drama Awards, receiving the grand prize at the 2024 ceremony held on December 31, 2024. This achievement highlighted not only his enduring talent but also his remarkable commitment to the entertainment industry throughout his life.
