You Won't Believe the Shocking Truth Behind K-Entertainment Legend Lee Soon-jae's Final Farewell!

SEOUL – The world of Korean entertainment mourns the loss of cherished actor Lee Soon-jae, who passed away on November 25, 2025, at the age of 91. A titan in the film and television industry, Lee's career spanned an impressive 69 years, during which he left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of South Korea.

According to his family, Lee died in the early hours of Tuesday morning. Even in his later years, he remained active in the industry, with his last stage performance occurring in late 2024. He had to withdraw midway through the run of the play “Waiting for Waiting for Godot” due to health concerns. His final screen appearance was in the KBS series “Dog Knows Everything,” which aired in September and October 2024. Just before stepping back from public life, he received the top acting prize at KBS's year-end awards show in January 2025.

Lee Soon-jae was not just an actor; he was a cultural icon, known for a diverse range of characters that endeared him to audiences across generations. From the stern yet comedic father figure in “What on Earth Is Love”—nicknamed “Daebal’s Father”—to the globe-trotting persona of “Grandpa Over Flowers,” Lee's ability to transcend genres and resonate with viewers was unparalleled. He often reflected on his craft, stating that "a lifetime of acting still isn’t enough," approaching each role with undying passion.

From Humble Beginnings to National Treasure

Born in 1934 in Hoeryong, North Hamgyong Province, what is now North Korea, Lee moved to Seoul at the tender age of four. He experienced the tumult of Korea’s modern history, from its liberation to the Korean War, shaping his worldview and artistic ambitions. Lee studied philosophy at Seoul National University, where he developed a love for cinema after watching Laurence Olivier’s “Hamlet.” He debuted in 1956 with the theatre troupe Theatre Libre and co-founded Experimental Theater, Korea’s first collective-artist troupe.

Lee’s television career began in 1961 with the KBS drama series “I, Too, Will Become Human,” marking a pivotal moment in Korea's broadcasting history. In 1965, he became a first-generation contracted actor with the now-defunct network TBC, positioning him at the heart of a rapidly growing television industry. His prolific output included appearances in over 30 productions a month and roughly 140 major works, including notable titles such as “Donguibogam,” “The Age of Three Kims,” and “Hur Jun.” His role in “What on Earth Is Love” made him a household name, with the show achieving a staggering 65 percent viewership.

Lee’s influence extended beyond acting; he briefly ventured into politics, winning a seat in the National Assembly in 1992 as a candidate for the Democratic Liberal Party. Nonetheless, he maintained his acting career throughout his political tenure.

A Comedic Turn in His Later Years