Seoul: Lee Soon-jae, a prominent figure in South Korean acting with a career spanning nearly seven decades, has passed away at the age of 91, his family announced. Lee, whose career was marked by his enduring commitment to acting, remained active in his profession until late last year and was cherished by audiences across multiple generations for his work in dramas, sitcoms, and period pieces.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Lee was born in 1934 in Hoeryong, now part of North Korea, and relocated to Seoul at the age of four. He began his acting journey while attending Seoul National University, debuting in the play "Beyond the Horizon" in 1956. Over the years, he built an extensive career in television, film, and theater. His portrayal of a stern father in MBC's 1991 drama "What on Earth is Love" gained him widespread recognition and paved the way for a brief political career. Lee was elected as a lawmaker for the Democratic Liberal Party in 1992, yet he continued his acting pursuits even during his time in the National Assembly.
After retiring from politics in 1996, Lee refocused on acting, showcasing his versatility through a variety of roles ranging from period dramas to modern comedies. In 2006, he took on a role in MBC's sitcom "High Kick!" and its sequel "High Kick Through the Roof," which helped him shed his stern image and connect with younger audiences. His popularity surged again in 2013 with his appearance in the travel reality series "Grandpas Over Flowers," where his energetic demeanor earned him the affectionate nickname "Straight-ahead Soon-jae."
Lee's passion for the stage was equally significant, as demonstrated in 2021 when he played the title role in "King Lear" at age 87 to enthusiastic applause. Despite stepping back from acting roles in October last year due to health concerns, his legacy was further cemented when he became the oldest recipient of an award at the KBS Drama Awards in 2024.
In a 2016 interview with Yonhap News Agency, Lee reflected on his craft, stating, "Acting, as an artistic act of creation, has no endpoint in one's lifetime, nor is it ever fully complete." His contributions to Korean entertainment have left a lasting impact on audiences and the industry alike.