S. Korea’s Beloved Actor Lee Soon-jae Concludes a Legendary Journey at Age 91

Published: November 25, 2025

INTRODUCTION

South Korea bids farewell to one of its most cherished cultural icons, Lee Soon-jae, who has concluded a remarkable journey at the age of 91. With a career spanning over seven decades, Lee’s artistic contributions shaped Korean theater, television, and film, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of audiences across generations.

While the nation reflects on this poignant moment, fans and colleagues alike are celebrating the enduring legacy of an actor whose work transcended entertainment, embodying values of professionalism, humility, and mentorship.

BACKGROUND: THE MAN AND HIS ARTISTRY

Lee Soon-jae was born in 1928, during a period of significant social and political change in Korea. He began his career in theater, honing his craft with a dedication that would become a hallmark of his lifelong journey. Transitioning to television and film, Lee gained recognition for his versatility, portraying characters ranging from comedic, lighthearted figures to deeply dramatic, emotionally complex roles.

His professional journey is characterized not only by the breadth of his work but also by the depth of his commitment. Colleagues often describe him as a teacher as much as a performer — someone who inspired through example and encouraged younger generations to pursue excellence with integrity.

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS

Over more than seven decades, Lee Soon-jae built an extraordinary portfolio of performances:

Television:

The Last Empress — a historical drama where Lee portrayed a statesman whose wisdom guided pivotal events.
My Father is Strange — a family drama beloved by audiences, where his portrayal of a grandfather resonated across age groups.

Film:

Memorable appearances in critically acclaimed productions such as King and the Clown, showcasing his ability to embody complex emotional narratives.
Roles in both commercial hits and art films, demonstrating versatility and deep commitment to character development.

Theater:

Beginning and often returning to the stage, Lee maintained a lifelong connection to live performance, mentoring actors while captivating audiences with his dynamic presence.

TIMELINE OF MAJOR MILESTONES

1928: Born in Seoul, Korea.

1950s: Begins career in theater; gains early recognition for stage performances.

1960s: Transitions to television, becoming a household name with roles in early Korean dramas.

1970s–1980s: Expands into film; wins several awards for supporting and lead roles, cementing his reputation as a versatile actor.

1990s: Receives lifetime achievement awards; mentors younger actors entering the industry.

2000s: Returns to theater occasionally while remaining active in television and film; celebrated for bridging generational audiences.

2010s: Recognized as a cultural icon; continues acting, demonstrating unwavering dedication.

2025: Concludes a remarkable life journey at 91; fans, colleagues, and the nation reflect on his enduring influence.

SIGNIFICANT ROLES AND ARTISTIC LEGACY

Lee Soon-jae’s career reflects a deep engagement with storytelling:

Mentorship Through Roles: Many of his characters served as moral guides or figures of wisdom, mirroring his off-screen role as a mentor.
Cultural Resonance: Roles often reflected contemporary social issues, providing audiences with both entertainment and thoughtful reflection.
Generational Bridge: Appearing in works across decades, he connected audiences from multiple generations, from young viewers discovering him in modern dramas to older audiences who witnessed his early stage performances.

FAN AND PUBLIC REACTIONS

The announcement of Lee Soon-jae’s conclusion has prompted a flood of tributes across social media:

Fans shared clips of memorable performances, expressing gratitude for the joy and insight he brought.
Celebrities and colleagues posted heartfelt reflections, highlighting his professionalism and mentorship.
Hashtags celebrating his life and career trended across platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Naver, demonstrating the deep affection and respect audiences continue to hold.

MEDIA COVERAGE AND CULTURAL IMPACT

Media coverage emphasizes not only Lee’s accomplishments but also his influence on Korean culture:

Numerous retrospectives highlight the evolution of Korean television and film through his work.
Documentaries and interviews showcase his approach to acting, dedication to craft, and guidance of younger artists.
Analysis of his roles demonstrates a consistent theme of moral integrity, family values, and social reflection.

Experts note that his contributions helped elevate South Korean entertainment to global recognition while preserving cultural authenticity and narrative depth.

EXPERT PERSPECTIVES

Entertainment Industry Analyst:

“Lee Soon-jae exemplified what it means to dedicate a life to the arts. His influence extends beyond performance — he shaped the very culture of Korean acting.”

Cultural Historian:

“Through Lee’s work, one can trace the evolution of modern Korean society. His roles captured both historical change and everyday life, leaving an educational as well as artistic legacy.”

Media Ethics Specialist:

“His life illustrates the importance of celebrating achievements respectfully. Even as social media trends emphasize viral content, Lee’s legacy reminds us to focus on enduring value rather than sensationalism.”

LEGACY AND TRIBUTE

Lee Soon-jae’s legacy will continue to influence:

Future Actors: Serving as a model of professionalism, versatility, and mentorship.
Cultural Memory: His performances document decades of Korean societal evolution.
Public Engagement: Audiences are encouraged to appreciate storytelling, empathy, and the human values embodied in his work.

Tributes are being organized, including televised retrospectives, online archival projects, and academic discussions of his contributions. These celebrations reflect both the scope of his achievements and the affection held by audiences.

CONCLUSION

Lee Soon-jae’s life represents the pinnacle of dedication to the performing arts. Though his journey has concluded, the impact of his work resonates across generations. Through memorable performances, mentorship, and unwavering professionalism, he leaves a legacy that will endure in Korean culture, entertainment, and public memory.

Audiences are invited not merely to mourn the conclusion of his journey but to celebrate a life filled with artistry, wisdom, and inspiration.

RELATED ARTICLES

“Remembering Korea’s Legendary Actors: Icons Who Shaped the Screen”
“The Evolution of Korean Television Drama Through the Eyes of Lee Soon-jae”
“Mentorship in the Arts: How Senior Actors Influence Future Generations”
“The Art of Longevity in Acting: Lessons from Lee Soon-jae”