Academy Award-winning Korean actor Lee Sun-kyun died on Wednesday, 27 December 2023. He was 48.
Lee Sun-kyun dies: What’s the cause of death?
Details surrounding the Parasite actor’s death are shrouded in mystery.
According to reports, Sun-kyun was found dead in his car near one of Seoul’s popular parks. Despite an ongoing investigation into his possible drug use, police have, thus far, yet to establish an official cause of death.
It’s believed authorities are also probing the likelihood Sun-kyun took his own life.
A statement from the actor’s family had not surfaced when this article was published.
Lee Sun-kyun obituary
Lee Sun-kyun was a renowned South Korean actor, celebrated for his versatile performances in both television and film. Born on 2 March 1975, in Seoul, South Korea, he embarked on his acting career in the late 1990s, showcasing his talent across various genres.
Sun-kyun rose to prominence with his roles in South Korean television series such as Coffee Prince (2007), where his performance earned him significant recognition and acclaim.
He was known for his ability to portray complex characters, seamlessly transitioning between drama and comedy.
His international fame was bolstered by his role in the 2019 film Parasite, directed by Bong Joon-ho.
The film won multiple awards, including the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival and the Academy Award for Best Picture. Sun-kyun’s performance in Parasite was highly praised and contributed to the film’s global success.
Throughout his career, Sun-kyun demonstrated a deep commitment to his craft. He was admired for his dedication to character development and his ability to bring depth and authenticity to his roles.
His work extended beyond acting, as he was also involved in voice-over work and appeared in various television commercials, further showcasing his versatility as an artist.
However, more recently, the actor’s budding career was marred by a drug scandal.
In the days leading up to his death, Sun-kyun was subject to intensive police questioning regarding these allegations.
He spent 19 hours being questioned by police over the weekend, where he vehemently claimed he was tricked into taking drugs by a bar hostess who was trying to blackmail him.
These allegations, along with the broader investigation into his drug use, were part of a wider government crackdown on narcotics in South Korea.
The circumstances surrounding his death, including the drug use allegations and the reported involvement of a bar hostess in a potential blackmail scheme, added layers of complexity to the narrative of his final days
Reactions to Sun-kyun’s death
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Lee Sun-kyun’s contribution to the film and television industry was significant, leaving a lasting impact on audiences and colleagues alike.
Here’s how his fans and peers reacted to the news of his death: