SEOUL: According to his family, veteran actor Lee Soon Jae passed away in the early morning of the 25th. Even at an advanced age, he was known for taking meticulous care of his health and continued to work actively across television, film, and theatre. Up until recently, he appeared in the stage production ‘Waiting for Godot’ and the KBS2 drama ‘Nonsense,’ showing no signs of slowing down.
Remembering the legendary actor who shaped Korean entertainment
Lee Soon Jae’s remarkable journey in acting began in 1956 with his debut in the stage play ‘Beyond the Horizon.’ From that very first performance, he demonstrated a presence and depth that would shape the direction of Korean entertainment for the next seven decades. In 1965, he became one of TBC’s first contracted actors, marking him as a foundational figure in the early years of Korean broadcasting.
His acting career expanded rapidly, and Lee Soon Jae soon became one of the most prolific performers in the country. With around 140 dramas officially credited to his name, and countless additional appearances in minor roles and cameos, his full filmography is almost impossible to quantify. At the height of his career, he was known to take part in more than thirty projects within a single month, a testament to both his passion and his relentless work ethic.
Over the years, Lee Soon Jae delivered unforgettable performances across some of the most iconic Korean dramas, including Heo Jun, Men of the Bathhouse, Rustic Period, Toji, Sangdo, and Lee San. His portrayal in ‘What Is Love?’ which recorded an impressive 65 percent viewership rating, became a cultural touchpoint, with his character as Daebal’s father representing a familiar patriarchal figure during the era.
Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, he became a defining force in historical dramas, contributing significantly to the genre’s golden era. His articulate delivery, strong stage presence, and refined acting style created memorable roles that left an enduring mark on Korean television.
Even after mastering dramatic and historical roles, Lee Soon Jae continued to challenge himself by expanding his acting spectrum. In his seventies, he took a surprising comedic turn with appearances in popular sitcoms like ‘High Kick!’ and ‘High Kick Through the Roof,’ stepping away from his traditionally dignified image. His humorous energy and playful character earned him a new wave of fans, including younger viewers who came to adore him.
Theatre always remained close to his heart. Later in life, Lee Soon Jae returned to the stage with immense dedication, delivering powerful performances in productions and in 2023, he expanded his artistic journey by directing a staging of Anton Chekhov’s ‘The Seagull,’ collaborating closely with younger actors.
Despite his age, Lee Soon Jae’s passion for acting never faded. Until pausing activities due to health concerns in October, he continued his work on both stage and screen, pouring his remaining strength into ‘Waiting for Godot.’ Just last year, he became the oldest ever recipient of the Grand Prize at the KBS Drama Awards, a historic recognition of his lifelong dedication.
From his first steps onstage in the 1950s to his final projects nearly seventy years later, Lee Soon Jae built a legacy shaped by discipline, artistry, and unwavering commitment. His career stands as one of the longest and most influential in Korean entertainment, leaving behind an impact that will continue to inspire for generations.
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