Top Celebrities Mourn The Passing Of Lee Soon Jae, Korea’s Oldest Working Actor
On November 25, KST, legendary actor Lee Soon Jae, Korea’s oldest active actor, passed away at the age of 91.
The entire industry has since been mourning this colossal loss, with many notable figures paying their last respects through various channels.
President Lee Jae Myung
South Korea’s President Lee Jae Myung expressed his deep condolences on the passing of the veteran actor and paid a tribute through a social media post. In the post, he addressed the actor as the “Great star of Korean arts and culture,” acknowledging his huge contributions to the fields of theater, film, and television.
Shin Min Ah And Kim Woo Bin
The soon-to-be-married K-Drama couple paid a tribute to the late actor by sending condolence wreaths at his funeral.
Choi Hyun Wook
The actor attended Lee Soon Jae’s wake and was seen shedding tears. He briefly addressed the press, choked up with emotion, stating that although he never had the chance to personally meet the actor, he was deeply moved by his passing.
Kim Hye Soo
The veteran actress paid her last respects by posting a screenshot of Lee accepting an award at the 2024 KBS Drama Awards on her social media, paired with a direct quote from his acceptance speech that night: “I’ve been indebted to you and have received so much help throughout my life. Thank you.”
Lee Seung Gi
Lee Seung Gi personally attended the late actor’s funeral and shared stories of their time spent together. He was known to be very close to the actor and his wife, and even officiated their wedding. Lee Seung Gi honored the senior actor, stating, “I believe he has gone to a better place. I am honored that he worked as an actor, and I think his juniors will carry on his spirit and work diligently.”
Seo Yea Ji
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Seo Yea Ji posted several photos with Lee on her Instagram, along with a touching message, saying, “I love you. Thank you. I will remember you forever.” The two had worked together in the 2013 sitcom Potato Star 2013QR3, and at that time, the actress had named Lee as her role model.
Girls’ Generation’s Taeyeon
The idol paid her final respects through a social media post. Taeyeong posted a picture with Lee and her groupmate Yuri, with a simple “praying” emoji. Yuri performed alongside Lee in the 2019 play Me and Grandpa Henri. Taeyeon, who had attended the performance, had seemingly become personally familiar with the legendary actor through the same connection.
Kwon Mina
Former AOA member Kwon Mina shared a heartfelt message on social media, recalling her warm moments with Lee Soon Jae on set. She thanked the veteran actor for his unfailing kindness and mentorship. “I will miss your warm smile so much,” she penned in the emotional post, adding, “It was truly an honor to have acted with you on set.”
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Go Hyun Jung
Go took to her personal social media to grieve Lee’s passing. In a series of Instagram stories, she prayed for his soul’s peace. The two had shared the screen for multiple K-Dramas, including Queen Seondeok and Big Thing.
