Lee Soon-Jae, Veteran Korean Dies Due to Natural Causes at 91

Lee Soon-Jae, a renowned figure in Korean cinema and television, has passed away at the age of 91. Known as one of South Korea’s longest-serving and most beloved actors, he left behind an unparalleled legacy with over 140 projects spanning more than seven decades. His versatile talent graced countless dramas, films, and theatre works, making him a household name and an icon of Korean culture. The nation mourns the loss of a true superstar whose influence transcended generations.

Lee Soon-Jae's Cause of Death

The Legend, and Veteran Actor Lee Soon Jae passed away at the age of 91.

According to his family, Lee Soon-jae passed away yesterday morning. Lee Soon Jae is the eldest active actor of the entertainment industry.

Rest in Peace, Lee Soon Jae. 🕊️🙏🏻#LeeSoonJae pic.twitter.com/htWwK7ARNe

— Headliner Manila (@headlinermnl) November 25, 2025

Lee Soon-Jae passed away on 25 November 2025, according to his family and agency. According to reports, he died of natural causes, reflecting his advanced age, rather than a specific illness. His agency had earlier confirmed that he was receiving rehabilitation for leg weakness, and denied rumours of more serious health issues, stating he was not hospitalised for any major disease. While public speculation had swirled about his health in recent months, including mobility concerns, the official word remains that his passing was peaceful and age-related.

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Who Was Lee Soon-Jae, and His Iconic Movies?

Born in 1934, Lee Soon-Jae’s career took off in the mid-1950s after making his stage debut in the play Beyond the Horizon. He soon became a pioneer of Korean television, joining KBS's first class of talent recruits in 1960.

Lee exhibited a remarkable range, perfectly blending roles in historical dramas like Hur Jun and Lee San with comedic turns in popular sitcoms such as Unstoppable High Kick! He earned widespread affection as “Yadong Soon-jae,” appealing to both old and new audiences.

Over his illustrious career, Lee appeared in some 140 productions, including What Is Love?, Dear My Friends, and Grandpas Over Flowers. His iconic portrayal in What Is Love? in the early 1990s captured the hearts of viewers with 65% viewership. Lee was admired for his professionalism, passion, and ability to authentically inhabit characters, earning him titles such as "the eternal active actor."

Lee Soon-Jae Legacy and Cultural Impact

More than just an actor, Lee Soon-Jae helped modern Korean theatre thrive in the 1960s by co-founding the Experimental Theatre group. He also served as president of the Korea Broadcasting Actors Association, influencing the industry beyond the camera. His impact stretched into politics, representing the Democratic Liberal Party in the National Assembly in the early 1990s.

His death drew tributes from across Korea’s political and cultural spheres. President Lee Jae Myung offered his condolences, calling Lee a “great star” who elevated the nation’s cultural heritage. The president added that Lee’s integrity and dedication made him both a “true actor of the people” and a guiding role model.

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Conclusion

Lee Soon-Jae’s passing marks the end of an extraordinary era in Korean entertainment. His versatile talent and enduring spirit set a gold standard for generations of actors. As Korea and the broader film community remember him, his artistic contributions and cultural influence remain timeless, inspiring future storytellers.