On November 28, MBC aired a commemorative documentary titled “Actor Lee Soon-jae, thank you for everything“, which highlights the life and career of the veteran actor. Originally intended as a career retrospective, the documentary’s production was halted due to Lee Soon-jae’s rapidly deteriorating health, and it was eventually broadcast three days after his death as a tribute.
Kai, an actor who shared the stage with Lee Soon-jae in the show Waiting Waiting for Godothe recalled, “On stage, he was constantly pushing himself, asking himself if he could do more, perform more intensely. He drew energy from the audience’s reactions and laughter. It was clear how much he loved being on stage.”
Despite being in poor health and physically unable to perform, Lee Soon-jae insisted on maintaining his commitment to the public. Park Jung-mi, producer of the show, shared, “He was in no condition to perform, barely able to walk or talk. I tearfully begged him to cancel the show.”
Kai added, “He repeatedly said he wanted to keep his promise to the public and didn’t want to bother anyone. After completing the 90-minute show, he went straight to the emergency room.”
Lee Soon-jae died on November 25 at the age of 91. Born in Hoeryong, North Hamgyong Province, he graduated from Seoul High School and the Philosophy Department of Seoul National University. He debuted as a first-generation KBS actor in 1960 and remained the oldest active actor in Korea until last year. His extensive work in television dramas such as What the hell is Love, The men of the bathhouseand movies included Stand by Me, Intimate strangersAND I love you earned him the affectionate title of “National Father”.
In addition to his acting career, Lee Soon-jae served as a member of the National Assembly after winning a seat in the 14th general election in 1992. He held positions as speaker of the Liberal Democratic Party and secretary of the Korean-Japanese Parliamentary Association.
Lee Soon-jae’s dedication to his art remained unwavering even when health problems emerged last year. In January 2024, he received the Grand Prize at the KBS Entertainment Awards for “The dog knows everything“, expressing gratitude to the viewers: “Actors should be judged only by their performances. Thank you to all the viewers who have encouraged and supported me throughout my life.”
Sources: Netizenbuzz
