Legendary South Korean actor Lee Soon Jae has died at the age of 91, bringing an extraordinary career of more than 70 years to a close. Widely admired across generations, he remained one of Korea’s most respected performers in film, television, and theatre, leaving behind a legacy regarded as an essential part of the nation’s cultural history.
Born in 1934 in Hoeryong and later raised in Seoul, Lee Soon Jae graduated from Seoul National University before entering the performing arts. Inspired by European cinema and Laurence Olivier’s acclaimed role in “Hamlet,” he began acting in the early 1960s with the stage production “Beyond the Horizon.” He soon became one of the first-generation actors shaping Korea’s modern entertainment landscape.
Lee’s contribution spanned a vast spectrum of roles in drama, comedy, and historical genres. His acclaimed works include “Unstoppable High Kick!,” “Good Morning President,” “Late Blossom,” “Grandpas Over Flowers,” “Dear My Friends,” “The Scholar Who Walks the Night,” “A Thousand Kisses,” and several long-running television series. Even in his later years, he remained active on stage and screen and had been scheduled to perform in “Waiting for Godot” in 2024 before health concerns forced him to withdraw.
Following the announcement of his passing, condolences poured in from actors, filmmakers, and public figures. South Korean President Lee Jae Myung honoured him as a “great star” whose dedication to his craft and exemplary character shaped generations of performers. He noted that the actor’s philosophy, discipline, and artistic values would remain part of Korea’s treasured cultural heritage.
With his remarkable body of work, Lee Soon Jae set standards of professionalism and artistic depth that remain influential in Korean entertainment. His passing marks the end of an era, yet his performances, teachings, and contributions will continue to guide and inspire future generations of actors and creators.
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