According to Korean news, veteran actor Lee Soon-jae has passed away at the age of 91 on November 25, 2025, Korean time.

Lee Soon-jae was one of the oldest actors in our country and a living witness to the history of broadcasting. He also received the Order of Cultural Merit.

He debuted in 1956 in the play "Beyond the Horizon" and has been active in films, theater, and television ever since.

Watching his realistic acting in "High Kick Without Hesitation" and "High Kick Through the Roof" was a great joy for me at that time.

From a young age, he exuded intelligence and charm, and his unique husky yet powerful voice made it clear that he was a distinguished actor.

He had an impressive command of the old Korean vowel system and was an actor who embodied the theory of representational acting.

Representational acting has a philosophy that contrasts with method acting, showcasing his excellent memorization skills and deep analysis of works, delivering lines and voice with precision across genres.

Lee Soon-jae was always a role model for many, with his impeccable self-management and tireless passion.

Veteran actor Lee Soon-jae was elected as a member of the National Assembly in the 14th general election in 1992. At that time, he filmed dramas while serving as a member of parliament, which led to controversy and the establishment of regulations against dual roles for entertainers. Ultimately, he left politics cleanly in 1996 and returned to acting, and since then, while he has supported and advised others, he did not directly enter politics again.

Even in his 90s in 2025, he continued to be active in theater, drama, and film, and in 2021, he played the oldest King Lear in the play "King Lear," successfully completing a performance lasting over three hours.

In the broadcasting industry, he started by appearing in HLKZ-TV, one of Korea's first TV broadcasters, and he was a living history of our acting world. Therefore, there was no young or mid-career actor who did not respect Lee Soon-jae.

He always said, "Entertainers are not public figures, but they have a great influence on the public... they must be restrained and know how to be grateful." Those words were not just words. He treated his juniors with humility and sincerity, and his open attitude, without asserting authority, was truly admirable.

A great star has fallen. That absence will be deeply felt.

However, the acting and life attitude left by this actor will remain in our hearts for a long time.

Rest in peace, Lee Soon-jae.