On the morning of November 25, Korean media outlets reported that beloved veteran actor Lee Soon Jae, known affectionately as the “nation’s grandpa,” had passed away at the age of 91. His death is a profound loss to Korean television and the broader entertainment industry. South Korean President Lee Jae Myung and many artists across generations paid their respects, recognizing the monumental contributions of the legendary actor.
President Lee Jae Myung posted a heartfelt message commemorating Lee Soon Jae, praising the actor’s dedication and lifelong commitment to the arts: “We pray for actor Lee Soon Jae, a giant in Korea’s cultural and artistic world. His entire life was devoted to acting, elevating Korean culture, and delivering laughter, tears, comfort, and courage through his performances in theater, film, and television. Just as the saying goes, ‘Acting is a lifelong companion that records the stories of humanity,’ I believe that for Lee Soon Jae, acting was a vessel through which he told our stories to the world, capturing the essence of human life. His acting skills, work ethic, dedication, and noble character as a senior artist have become a role model for all generations of actors. The works and messages he left behind will be passed down as invaluable cultural heritage. I will always remember him a beloved artist and a national actor for all generations. May he rest in peace.”
The entertainment community echoed these sentiments. Actor Jung Bo Seok, who played Lee Soon Jae’s son-in-law in High Kick Through the Roof, expressed deep sorrow: “Thank you, teacher. I learned so much from you about acting, life, and what it means to be an actor. You were a true teacher in my life. Your footsteps are the beginning and the history of Korean television. I pray for your peaceful rest.”
Actor Jung Dong Hwan shared his grief and admiration, recalling a moment of awe when he saw Lee Soon Jae reading late into the night, preparing to teach despite his packed filming schedule. “Even while acting tirelessly, he continued to teach acting to university students. To me, Lee Soon Jae was extraordinary. He lived every moment to the fullest with love and passion.”
Celebrities such as Taeyeon (SNSD), Seo Ye Ji, PD Na Young Seok, Yoon Se Ah, Baek Il Seop, and Lee Min Jung posted tributes and shared old photos with the late actor, reminiscing about moments of collaboration and friendship. In China, Lee Soon Jae’s passing also made waves, with the keyword “Lee Soon Jae death” trending as the number one hot search on Weibo.
According to Osen, the funeral will be held at the Seoul Asan Medical Center Funeral Hall. The wake began at 1 PM on November 25 (KST), and the burial ceremony will be held at 6:30 AM on November 27. His wife Choi Hee Jung, son, and daughter serve as the chief mourners, with his students taking on the role of pallbearers. True to his wishes, the funeral is being kept simple and solemn.
Born in 1934, Lee Soon Jae was a legendary figure in Korean entertainment, with a career spanning over 70 years. He inspired generations of actors and left behind an unparalleled legacy in both television and theater. Widely recognized across Asia, he gained fame through acclaimed works like High Kick!, Lee San, Wind of the Palace, and Potato Star 2013QR3.
Even in his later years, despite declining health, Lee Soon Jae continued to pour his heart into his final projects and dedicated himself to teaching acting at universities. In 2024, he made history as the oldest actor to receive the Daesang (Grand Prize) at the KBS Drama Awards a testament to his enduring talent and impact.
Sources: K14
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