South Korea’s ‘national TV dad’ Lee Soon Jae passes away
- Lee Soon Jae, one of South Korea’s most respected and long-serving actors, has died at the age of 91, his agency confirmed
- His career spanned more than 70 years across film, television, and theater, earning him the nickname “national TV dad” for his memorable portrayals
- News of his passing prompted tributes from young celebrities and public figures, including President Lee Jae Myung, who highlighted his lifelong dedication to acting and cultural influence
- Lee Soon Jae was widely admired for his professionalism, mentorship, and ability to connect with audiences across generations
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Lee Soon Jae, one of South Korea’s most respected and long-serving actors, has passed away at the age of 91, his agency confirmed on Tuesday. According to Soompi, Soon Jae died in the early morning of November 25, leaving behind a career that spanned more than seven decades across film, television, and the stage.
Source: UGC
Fondly nicknamed the “national TV dad,” Lee earned widespread admiration for his portrayals of wise and caring older men, capturing the hearts of audiences across generations. Two of his most memorable roles include his performance as a strict father in the 1991 soap What on Earth is Love, and as a silly yet lovable grandfather in the popular sitcom High Kick!, which aired from 2006 to 2012, according to BBC News.
News of Lee’s passing immediately sparked an outpouring of tributes from fellow actors, K-pop stars, and other young celebrities, all praising his warmth, kindness, and lasting influence on Korean entertainment. Among those honoring him was President Lee Jae Myung, who posted a heartfelt tribute on his official Facebook page, as reported by AllKpop.
On November 25th KST, President Lee wrote, “I offer my deepest condolences on the passing of the nation’s actor, Lee Soon Jae.” He continued, “Devoting his entire life to acting, Lee Soon Jae elevated the dignity of Korean culture and arts. Moving seamlessly across theater, film, and broadcasting, he gifted us laughter, emotion, comfort, and courage.”
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Reflecting on Lee Soon Jae’s approach to his craft, President Lee added, “Acting is a companion to life, capturing the stories of living human beings. To him, acting was likely a channel through which he shared the stories of our lives and conveyed the essence of the human experience.”
He further praised Lee’s professionalism and mentorship, stating, “His philosophy of acting, his attitude as an actor, and his integrity as a true elder became a guiding model for countless juniors and deeply resonated with all of us.”
President Lee emphasized the lasting significance of Lee’s work: “The works and messages he leaves behind will remain a precious cultural heritage of Korea. We will remember him always, as an artist loved across all generations and a true actor of the people.” He concluded his tribute with a personal reflection: “I can still vividly recall his expressions and voice. May you rest in peace.”
Lee Soon Jae’s contributions to Korean arts and culture remain unparalleled, and his legacy as a beloved figure in television, theater, and film will continue to inspire future generations.
Lee Soon Jae is not the only foreign figure to have passed away recently, as similar reports involving the deaths of other notable international personalities have surfaced across various media outlets.
In a previous report, Paul Daniel "Ace" Frehley, the founding guitarist of the legendary American rock band KISS, has died, according to a statement released by his family. He was 74. His family expressed their deep grief, saying they were devastated and heartbroken by his passing. They shared that they were able to surround him with love, care, and peaceful thoughts in his final moments. Frehley is survived by his wife Jeanette and daughter Monique, and his legacy as the band’s iconic "Spaceman" will continue to be remembered.
In another report, celebrated R&B and neo-soul trailblazer D’Angelo, whose pioneering sound reshaped modern soul music, has died at the age of 51 after a long fight with pancreatic cancer, according to multiple U.S. media reports. His family announced his death on October 14, 2025, expressing both deep sadness and gratitude for the legacy he left through his music. They said his memory will live on through the songs that touched listeners around the world. The family requested privacy as they mourn the acclaimed musician.
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Source: KAMI.com.gh
