Veteran actor Lee Soon Jae, well known for his grandfather roles in several K-drama series and movies, has passed away.
According to Soompi, Lee’s family and agency confirmed his death at the age of 91, in the morning of Tuesday, Nov. 25.
The late actor is among the oldest active performers in the South Korean entertainment industry with over 100 projects across television, film and theater, such as “Crash Landing On You,” “I’ll Become a Man,” “Dongui Bogam,” “See and See Again,” “Three Kim Generation,” “Men of the Bath House,” “Rustic Period,” “Toji, the Land,” “Mom’s Dead Upset,” “What on Earth is Love,” “High Kick!” “Again My Life.”
Lee remained active until late 2024 through the theatrical play “Waiting for Waiting for Godot,” but was forced to withdraw midway through its run due to health issues and medical advice requiring several months of rest.
In the same year, he later starred in the TV series “Dog Knows Everything,” which earned him the coveted Daesang award at the 2024 KBS Drama Awards, making him the oldest recipient of the network’s top acting honor.
“Opportunities come if you keep preparing,” he said in his emotional acceptance speech. “Living this long, such a day eventually arrives. I want to say to the viewers watching that I have depended on you, learned from you and received so much from you all my life.”
