Beloved South Korean actor Lee Soon-jae dies at 91.

14 hours ago7 min read4 comments

The final curtain has fallen on one of South Korea's most luminous stars, leaving a glittering void in the entertainment firmament. Lee Soon-jae, the venerable actor whose career was a masterclass in longevity and grace, has passed away at the age of 91, concluding a nearly seven-decade-long performance that captivated a nation.He wasn't just an actor; he was a cherished grandfather figure, a permanent fixture in the cultural living room of Korea, his face as familiar and comforting as a well-loved heirloom. From his early, dashing roles that made hearts flutter to the wise, often humorous patriarchs he so brilliantly embodied in later years, Lee’s trajectory mirrored the very story of modern South Korean entertainment, evolving from black-and-white films to the high-definition dramas that now command global audiences.His filmography reads like a timeline of Korean pop culture itself, with each role a carefully stitched thread in the nation's collective memory. Think of the gravitas he brought to historical sagas, the twinkle in his eye during beloved family sitcoms, and the effortless warmth he exuded in commercials that made you wish he was your own halmeoni.This is a loss that transcends a simple news bulletin; it feels personal, like losing a part of the family. The red carpet at award shows will feel a little dimmer without his dignified presence, and one can only imagine the heartfelt tributes and montages being prepared by his legion of colleagues and admirers, from young idols who saw him as an industry pillar to veteran co-stars who shared the screen with a living legend.His passing marks the end of a golden era, a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of even our most enduring icons. While the spotlight shifts to a new generation of stars, the legacy of Lee Soon-jae will endure, forever playing on a loop in the hearts of those who grew up with him—a timeless performance from a true master of his craft.

#Lee Soon-jae

#South Korea

#actor

#TV dad

#death

#obituary

#featured

Stay Informed. Act Smarter.

Get weekly highlights, major headlines, and expert insights — then put your knowledge to work in our live prediction markets.