The late Lee Soon-jae, widely regarded as Korea’s “one and only national actor”, was buried on November 27, surrounded by the tears of young actors, colleagues and students who flocked to bid him a final farewell.
The funeral and procession were held at Seoul Asan Medical Center at 5:30 am. The ceremony was hosted by actor Jeong Bo-seok, with fellow actors Kim Young-chul and Ha Ji-won delivering emotional eulogies.
The inclusion includes, among others, K Sangngod, Lee Won-Coun, Young-geun, Young-Gon, Young-whoun, Won Ki-Jong, Jung Tae-Wa, Jun, Jung Tae-Wa, Jun, Jung Tea-woo, Jud Il-woo, Jang Joon-hwan, Jang Joon-ha and withroadcaster.
Students from the Department of Drama and Art at Gachon University, where Lee Soon-jae was a distinguished professor, led the procession. As the casket entered the hall, the sound of his students and students’ sobs filled the room, reflecting the deep respect and affection he inspired throughout the industry.
A Geumgwan Order of Cultural Merit, awarded posthumously by the Korean government, was placed in front of his portrait, an emblem of the monumental legacy he leaves in the Korean performing arts.
Jeong Bo-seok opened the ceremony with a trembling voice, calling Lee Soon-jae “a pioneer in the history of Korean broadcasting and acting.” He added, “Every step he took was a path for us to follow. He was the umbrella that allowed younger actors to act without fear.”
Ha Ji-won, in tears, expressed disbelief as she said goodbye: “I still feel that your steadfast voice will call us again. I will strive to live and act with the sincerity, humility and warmth you have taught us.”
Veteran actor Kim Young-chul, who shared decades of history with Lee Soon-jae, cried deeply: “If there was a day I could erase, I would erase that sunrise. I wish I could erase this morning too.” He added that Lee Soon-jae’s unwavering dignity and respect towards others have provided comfort and guidance to countless people.
After the ceremony, actors Kim Na-woon, Ha Ji-won and Jung Joon-ha couldn’t hold back their tears. As the hearse left for its final resting place at Eden Paradise in Incheon, the younger actors bowed deeply until the car disappeared from sight, paying their final respects to the man who shaped generations of artists.
Lee Soon-jae died on November 25 at the age of 91. Born in 1934 in Hoeryong, North Hamgyong Province, he made his debut in 1956 with the show Beyond the horizonleaving an unprecedented legacy in theatre, television, film and politics.
He has starred in numerous acclaimed dramas, including Like Jun, Sando, The king’s daughter, Soo Baek-hyangand the beloved High kick sitcom series — and remained a beloved figure through the hit reality show Grandparents on flowers. He also served briefly in politics, having been elected to the National Assembly in 1992.
Lee Soon-jae’s profound influence on Korean arts ensures that his legacy will continue to shine for generations.
He will be remembered. He will not be forgotten.
Sources: Daum
