Who was Lee Soon-jae? Korean acting legend dies at 91 after seven decades in the industry

Lee Soon-jae, a legendary Korean actor who made his acting debut in the 1956 play “Beyond the Horizon,” has died. His family announced that the veteran actor and mentor to several celebrities passed away on Tuesday, November 25, 2025. He was 91 years old.

Lee was a recognised name not only in K-dramas but also in theatre plays. Last year, he won the Grand Prize at the 2024 KBS Acting Awards, making him the oldest active winner of the award.

He said in his acceptance speech:

“I want to thank the viewers who have supported me throughout my life. After my first KBS drama I Also Want to Be Human, I didn’t get many opportunities, but I always prepared, thinking, ‘Maybe one day.’ After 60, actors usually get merit awards. But even at 60, if you do well, you get an award—not a merit one. This award isn’t mine alone.”

In addition to being an actor, Lee Soon-jae was also a politician. He served as a member of the 14th National Assembly under the Democratic Liberal Party. He was also a professor at Gachon University’s Department of Performing Arts.

Some of his works include:

1) The Legendary Doctor - Hur Jun

2) The Merchant

3) Lee San, Wind of the Palace

4) High Kick!

5) High Kick! Through the Roof

6) What on Earth is Love

7) Dongui Bogam

8) Seeing and Seeing Again

9) Men of the Bathhouse

10) Rustic Period

11) Land

12) Mom's Dead Upset

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Actors pay tribute to Lee Soon-jae

Lee Soon-jae died early Tuesday morning, and celebrities have begun paying tribute. Actor Jeong Bo-seok sent his condolences on his personal SNL account. He wrote:

“Teacher, thank you so much for everything. I learned and felt a lot about acting, life, and the attitude of an actor.”

He continued:

“You are the true teacher of my life. Each step you took was the beginning and history of broadcast acting.”

Adding:

“I pray that you rest more peacefully where you are going.”

Actor Jeong Dong-hwan also paid tribute to Lee Soon-jae. He said:

“He taught me what life is. Until his final moments, he did everything he could. He will be remembered as someone who left nothing undone before passing. Having lived his best, I hope he rests comfortably and happily wherever he is.”

Another celebrity to pay tribute to Lee Soon-jar was singer and musical actor Tei. He said during his radio show:

“He once said he would remain on stage or in front of the camera until the end of his life, so I thought he would continue to be active well past 100. My deepest condolences to the deceased.”

Adding:

“I believe he is in a better place now. I will never forget his lifelong pursuit of challenges and his passionate dedication. I have great respect for him.”

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