Iconic South Korean actor Lee Soon-jae passes away at 91, leaving a rich legacy

Post by : Raina Nasser

Lee Soon-jae, a legendary figure in South Korean cinema and television, has died at the age of 91, as confirmed by his agency. His illustrious career spanned over seven decades, earning him the affectionate title of the "national TV dad" for his endearing portrayals of wise paternal figures in various films, TV dramas, and theatre productions.

He gained significant acclaim from his role in the iconic 1991 series What on Earth is Love, where he played a stern yet loving father. Moreover, his comedic role as a charming grandfather in the much-loved sitcom High Kick!, which ran from 2006 to 2012, solidified his position as a beloved household name among audiences ranging from young children to elderly viewers.

Following the announcement of his passing, tributes flooded in from fans and colleagues alike across the entertainment spectrum. South Korean President Lee Jae Myung expressed condolences on social media, highlighting the laughter and comfort Lee brought to the nation via his extensive body of work. Numerous K-pop idols and emerging actors paid tribute, recalling his warmth and generosity off-screen.

Despite entering his golden years, Lee remained active in the entertainment industry up to his last days. In a testament to his enduring talent, he won the grand prize at the KBS Drama Awards in 2023 for his role in the comedy series Dog Knows Everything, achieving a record as the oldest actor to receive this honor. His exuberance was also showcased on the travel series Grandpas Over Flowers, where he inspired audiences by declaring, "You grow old when you sit back and expect others to wait on you."

Born in 1934 in Hoeryeong, now part of North Korea, Lee relocated with his family to Seoul at the tender age of four. During Korea’s fight for independence from Japanese rule, he helped in his grandparents' shop in the bustling Namdaemun market. Although he studied philosophy at Seoul National University, his passion for acting led him to pursue a career ignited by the iconic Laurence Olivier’s portrayal in Hamlet.

Over the course of his exceptional career, Lee contributed to an impressive portfolio of around 140 television programs and continued to grace the stage until late 2024. His final performance was in Waiting for Godot, from which he stepped down due to health concerns. Nevertheless, he made a notable public appearance later that year to accept his award, illustrating his unwavering commitment to his craft.

In addition to his acting career, Lee briefly ventured into politics, securing a seat in South Korea’s parliament in 1992 as part of the Democratic Liberal Party. He opted not to run for re-election after serving just one term.

Lee Soon-jae’s legacy stands tall. He remains a treasured icon for people of all ages, from prior generations who cherished his shows to younger fans discovering his art through trending social media clips. His impact on the Korean entertainment landscape, particularly during this era of global recognition for Korean culture, is profound.

Fellow actor Yoo Yeon-seok, a student of Lee’s, praised him as the epitome of exceptional acting. Jeong Bo-seok, a co-star from High Kick!, fondly referred to Lee as a “true mentor,” expressing heartfelt gratitude for his teachings in both acting and life.

Lee Soon-jae’s remarkable contributions and the warmth he exuded will resonate within South Korean culture for generations to come.