Actor Yoon Shi-yoon paid tribute to the late Lee Soon-jae with a heartfelt letter, recalling the profound impact the veteran actor had on his career. Yoon Shi-yoon, who debuted in 2009 via MBC High kick through the roofhe recalled his first day on set, arriving early to rehearse, only to find Lee Soon-jae already there, diligently practicing on his own.
“In that empty rehearsal room, I saw a giant of Korean acting, sitting alone, rehearsing with utmost dedication. His warm smile and guidance that day are memories I will never forget.” Yoon Shi-yoon wrote. He reflected on Lee Soon-jae’s tireless commitment to his craft, even amidst grueling schedules and failing health, noting how Lee Soon-jae emphasized the fundamentals of acting and led by example.
Yoon Shi-yoon pledged in his letter to carry forward the spirit embodied by Lee Soon-jae: “Now I will protect that empty rehearsal room, continuing the dedication to my craft that it taught me.”
The Nov. 27 funeral at Asan Hospital in Seoul included a memorial video and heartfelt tributes from numerous actors who had worked with Lee Soon-jae. Born in 1934 in Hoeryong, Hamgyeong Province, Lee Soon-jae began his career in 1956 with stage show Beyond the horizon and appeared in over 140 plays over his lifetime, leaving a lasting legacy in Korean theater, film, and television.
Yoon Shi-yoon’s reflection highlights the lasting influence Lee Soon-jae has had on generations of actors, calling him a mentor whose lessons of humility, discipline and dedication will resonate for years to come.
Sources: Naver
