Korean Acting Legend Lee Soon-jae Dies at 91, Ending a 70-Year Career

Veteran South Korean actor Lee Soon-jae has passed away. He died on Tuesday, November 25, 2025. He was 91 years old. His family confirmed the news to domestic media outlets.

The iconic performer leaves behind an unparalleled legacy. His career spanned nearly seven decades in theater, film, and television. He was acting right up until the end, a true pillar of the industry.

A Life Dedicated to the Craft of Performance

Lee Soon-jae’s journey began in 1956. His professional stage debut was in the play “Beyond the Horizon.” From that moment, he never looked back. He became a fixture on the Korean cultural scene.

He seamlessly moved between mediums. Theater was his first love. He then mastered television and film. His filmography includes over 140 television dramas and numerous movies.

One role introduced him to a new generation. In the 2007 sitcom “Unstoppable High Kick!”, he played a grandfather. His humorous performance became an internet meme. It made him a star with young audiences, too.

Record-Setting Achievements and National Honors

Lee Soon-jae earned respect until his final days. In January 2025, he won the Grand Prize at the KBS Drama Awards. He was 91, making him the oldest recipient ever. This was for his role in the drama “Dog Knows Everything.”

The South Korean government honored him profoundly. In 2018, he received the Eungwan Order of Cultural Merit. This is a prestigious award given for outstanding cultural contributions.

His international appeal was also recognized. He won Best Actor at China’s Golden Rooster and Hundred Flowers Festival in 2011. This was for his leading role in the film “Late Blossom.”

The Lasting Impact of a National Treasure

Lee Soon-jae’s influence cannot be overstated. He redefined what it meant to be a veteran actor. He showed that artistry has no age limit. His work ethic inspired countless younger performers.

He was also a beloved variety show star. He appeared in “Grandpas Over Flowers” from 2013 to 2018. The show featured elderly actors traveling the world. It was a huge hit, challenging ageism in entertainment.

Beyond acting, he was an educator. He served as a professor at Sejong University. He dedicated himself to mentoring the next wave of talent.

The death of Lee Soon-jae marks the closing of a major chapter in Korean pop culture. His seven-decade career set a standard for excellence and longevity that may never be matched. The nation mourns the loss of its true national actor.

Thought you’d like to know

What was Lee Soon-jae’s cause of death?

Specific details regarding his cause of death have not been publicly disclosed by his family. Reports indicate he passed away peacefully in the early hours of November 25.

What was Lee Soon-jae’s most famous role?

While famous for many roles, his part as Grandfather Lee in the 2007 sitcom “Unstoppable High Kick!” brought him massive, viral fame with younger viewers and remains iconic.

Did Lee Soon-jae win any major awards recently?

Yes. Just months before his passing, he won the Grand Prize (Daesang) at the 2024 KBS Drama Awards in January 2025 for his performance in “Dog Knows Everything.”

How did Lee Soon-jae impact Korean variety television?

He was a central member of the hit travel show “Grandpas Over Flowers.” The program’s success proved there was a strong audience for content starring senior celebrities.

Trusted Sources: Reports on this story were based on information from reputable South Korean news agencies and entertainment outlets, including coverage confirmed by major domestic broadcasters.