Veteran actor Lee Soon-jae, Korea’s oldest active actor at 91, has missed recent events due to health issues, raising concern among fans about his well-being.
A Legendary Career Marked by Dedication
Lee Soon-jae, born on November 16, 1934, in Hoeryong, North Hamgyong Province (now part of North Korea), has been a cornerstone of Korean entertainment for over seven decades. His family moved to Seoul when he was four, where he was raised in Ahyeon-dong. After graduating from Seoul High School and Seoul National University, Lee debuted in 1956 with the drama Will I Become Human?. His career spans countless works, including iconic roles in Unstoppable High Kick! (2007), where a comedic scene earned him the nickname “Yadong Soon-jae,” and the film Late Blossom (2011), which won him Best Actor at the China Golden Rooster and Hundred Flowers Film Festival.
Lee’s commitment to acting is legendary. In 2008, during A Life in the Theatre, he performed despite losing his mother, stating:
“Do not cancel tonight’s show. The stage is a promise with the audience—there are no exceptions.”
In 2012, while performing in Le Père, he continued after an onstage injury, finishing with just a bandage. His resilience earned him the Eungwan Order of Cultural Merit in 2018 and a place in the Korean Broadcasting Hall of Fame.
Recent Health Struggles Cause Alarm
On April 15, 2025, Lee Soon-jae was absent from the 37th Korea PD Awards, where he won in the actor category. Lee Seung-hee, CEO of his agency, accepted the award and shared:
“Mr. Lee Soon-jae couldn’t attend due to health concerns. He’s not doing well and is in need of support and encouragement.”
This announcement sparked widespread worry online. Fans expressed fears that Lee’s condition might be serious, given his age and history of health challenges. The agency later clarified that Lee is not battling a specific illness but suffers from severe muscle loss, particularly in his legs, which affects his mobility. He is currently resting and undergoing rehabilitation to regain strength.
Lee Seung-hee further explained:
“His health has greatly improved. The issue is more about mobility. His leg muscles have weakened due to age, and while he can move with assistance, he prefers not to appear in public that way.”
This clarification eased some concerns, but fans remain anxious due to Lee’s recent history of health setbacks.
Past Health Challenges and Resilience
In October 2024, Lee withdrew from the play Waiting for Godot, where he played the lead character Estragon, after doctors advised a three-month rest due to declining stamina. The production company, Park Company, canceled all performances from October 13 to 20, stating:
“We have decided to cancel the performance due to the doctor’s opinion that we need more rest due to the current physical deterioration.”
A masterclass lecture, 70 Years of Acting Philosophy, scheduled for October 12, was also postponed indefinitely. The Korea Culture and Arts Education Promotion Agency noted they would reschedule once Lee recovers.
Despite these setbacks, Lee made a triumphant return at the 2024 KBS Drama Awards on December 31, 2024, winning the Grand Prize (Daesang) and Best Couple Award for his role in Dog Knows Everything. In the comedy series, he played an actor who solves mysteries with a police dog, Sophie, on Geoje Island. Visibly frail, Lee needed assistance to reach the stage but moved audiences with his speech:
“Living long enough, days like this happen. I always believed that someday the opportunity would come, and today I’m honored to receive this precious and beautiful award.”
He emphasized judging acting on merit, not popularity, and thanked the cast and crew, noting the challenge of filming in remote locations over 20 times. The ceremony, delayed due to the Jeju Air tragedy, aired on January 11, 2025, earning Lee a standing ovation.
A Career of Milestones
At 91, Lee remains Korea’s oldest active actor, a title he inherited after the passing of Song Hae in 2022. His career highlights include starring in Yi San as King Yeongjo, Horse Doctor, and Heo Joon, earning praise for bringing depth to every role. Fans worldwide have lauded his work, with comments like:
“You are a very good and outstanding actor which brought life to every single character you performed. Thank you for all those beautiful characters.” — Sara, July 29, 2013
“You were wonderful as usual in Horse Doctor and brought such dignity to your character.” — CICI, March 29, 2013
“My favorite grandpa characters are played by you. Every role you play, whether it’s comedy or serious, it’s a privilege to watch you.” — Jim, August 12, 2014
Lee’s versatility shines in both comedic and dramatic roles. In 2021, at 87, he played the oldest Lear in King Lear during a three-hour theater performance, showcasing his remarkable memorization and vocal strength. His 2013 role as Willy Loman in Father, a Korean adaptation of Death of a Salesman, reflected his deep understanding of classic works, as he noted:
“When I first played this role in 1978, some parts were rather incomprehensible. But now, as our society developed, we can finally fully understand what those lines mean.”
Public and Industry Support
Lee’s absence from the Korea PD Awards and his limited public appearances have fueled discussions online. Netizens expressed concern but also admiration for his lifelong dedication. One fan wrote on social media:
“Lee Soon-jae is a national treasure. His health news is heartbreaking, but his legacy is unmatched. Wishing him strength and recovery.”
Another commented:
“Seeing him struggle to walk at the KBS Awards but still deliver such a powerful speech shows his spirit. Please rest and come back strong, legend!”
The industry continues to honor Lee. In 2024, he ranked third in the November Drama Actor Brand Reputation Rankings, behind Park Shin-hye and another actor. His influence extends beyond acting, as he serves as a distinguished professor at Gachon University, mentoring young talent.
Current Status and Hope for Recovery
As of May 2025, Lee Soon-jae is focusing on recovery, prioritizing rest and rehabilitation to address his mobility issues. His agency reports no specific illness, emphasizing that age-related muscle loss is the primary concern. Lee remains mentally sharp and deeply respected, with no new projects announced since Dog Knows Everything.
Fans and peers hold onto hope for his return. His 70-year career, marked by resilience, passion, and artistry, continues to inspire. As Korea’s “national actor,” Lee’s legacy endures, and the nation awaits news of his recovery with admiration and support.
CREDITS: Nate
