Veteran South Korean comedian Jeon Yoo-seong, who earned the beloved nickname "godfather of comedy" throughout his illustrious career, passed away on Thursday evening at the age of 76. The legendary entertainer, known for his exceptional wit and genuinely warm personality, died at approximately 9:05 p.m. after complications from a worsening pulmonary pneumothorax condition, according to an official statement from the Korea Broadcasting Comedy Association.
Born in 1949, Jeon's journey into the entertainment industry began with his academic pursuits in theater and directing at Sorabol College of Arts. His professional career launched in 1968 when he was specially recruited as a comedy writer for the television broadcaster TBC, marking the beginning of what would become a transformative career in Korean entertainment.
Jeon's transition from writing to performing proved to be a pivotal moment in Korean comedy history. He rose to national prominence through his appearances on several hit television programs, most notably "Humor No. 1" and "Show Video Jockey," which showcased his unique comedic talents and charismatic screen presence. During the 1970s and 1980s, widely considered the golden age of Korean broadcast comedy, Jeon emerged as one of the most central and influential figures in the industry.
Perhaps his most significant contribution to Korean entertainment came in the late 1990s when he played a pioneering role in creating KBS's "Gag Concert." This landmark open comedy program became a cultural phenomenon, entertaining audiences for more than two decades and establishing itself as one of the longest-running and most beloved comedy shows in Korean television history. The program's enduring popularity stands as a testament to Jeon's vision and understanding of what audiences wanted.
Jeon is survived by his daughter, who will carry on his legacy. His funeral arrangements will be conducted under the official auspices of the Korea Broadcasting Comedy Association, with the mourning altar being set up at Asan Medical Center in Seoul, allowing colleagues, friends, and fans to pay their final respects to the comedy legend.
