Veteran Actor Lee Soon-jae Passes Away at 91

SEOUL, South Korea — Veteran actor and former lawmaker Lee Soon-jae died early Tuesday morning, his family confirmed. He was 91 years old.

Born on November 16, 1934, in Hoeryong, North Hamgyong Province, Lee moved to Seoul at the age of four. He launched his acting career in 1960 as part of the first class of talent recruits by KBS. Over his impressive 70-year career, he became known as Korea’s oldest active performer.

Lee’s extensive body of work spans theater, television, and film. He once stated, “Theater is the actor’s art,” a philosophy that guided his career. He captivated audiences with his performances in notable works including the sitcom “Unstoppable High Kick!” and the drama “Late Blossom,” which earned him Best Actor at the Golden Rooster and Hundred Flowers Festival.

A significant figure in the Korean entertainment industry, Lee served as the president of the Korea Broadcasting Actors Association for three terms during the 1970s and 1980s. He was also elected to the National Assembly in 1992 as a candidate for the Democratic Liberal Party.

Despite his age, Lee remained active until late last year, when health concerns led him to cancel scheduled performances. He was unable to attend the Korea PD Awards in April, and speculation about his health intensified.

In January 2025, Lee received the Grand Prize at the KBS Drama Awards becoming the oldest recipient ever, just months before his death. His contributions to the industry have been recognized with multiple awards, including the Eungwan Order of Cultural Merit from the Korean government.

His passing marks the end of an era in Korean entertainment, leaving behind a legacy that highlights the importance of dedication and artistry at any age.