Beloved “High Kick” Actress in 9-Year Coma Following Stroke

Korean actress Lee Soo Na, known for her memorable role as Kae Sung Daek in the hit sitcom High Kick!, has been in a coma for nine years after suffering a stroke at her home in 2016. The tragic news has resurfaced, prompting waves of sorrow and reflection among colleagues and fans.

Born in 1942, Lee Soo Na collapsed at her residence and was hospitalized in critical condition, soon falling into a coma. Despite ongoing treatment, her condition has not improved, and her recovery remains unlikely, with experts estimating her chance of awakening at less than 0.01%.

Her daughter previously shared: “My mother hasn’t regained consciousness since entering intensive care. She had high blood pressure and diabetes, but doctors haven’t confirmed the cause. We’re just monitoring and hoping she wakes up.”

Fellow stars have spoken out in sadness and disbelief. Late actress Kim Soo Mi once recounted: “Have you heard about Lee Soo Na? She’s been bedridden and brain-dead for years. She had a stroke at home and wasn’t found until later.” Actor Lee Gye In remembered their final meeting: “She said, ‘Let’s have one beer and go home,’ and we drank together. Two days later, I heard she was hospitalized. I thought she’d just fainted from exhaustion — I didn’t expect it would become this.”

Veteran actress Kim Hye Ja shared her sorrow: “She was such a strong person… Life really is unpredictable.” Actor Shin Choong Shik, a longtime friend, said he has been unable to reach Lee for the past decade. “I once met a distant relative of hers working at the hospital. I asked about contacting her, but they said it was completely impossible. All communication has been cut off.”

Born Lee Soon Jae, Lee Soo Na graduated from Korea University with a law degree and debuted in broadcasting in 1965 as an announcer and voice actress at MBC. She transitioned into acting, gaining widespread recognition for her work in Country Diaries, Hello Franceska, and High Kick!, where her role brought laughter and warmth to millions.

As of now, Lee Soo Na remains in a coma, and while medical experts offer little hope, fans continue to wish for a miracle. Her enduring presence in Korean television and her touching life story serve as a solemn reminder of life’s unpredictability — and the fragility behind even the brightest stars.

kenh14