Lee Soon-jae death has saddened millions across South Korea, as the nation loses one of its most loved actors at the age of 91. Often called the country’s “TV dad,” Lee Soon-jae passed away in Seoul surrounded by family, marking the end of a remarkable seven-decade career that shaped Korean television, film, and theatre. Fans, actors, and national leaders are paying tribute to his legacy and the unforgettable impact he left on generations.
South Korea is mourning the loss of one of its most beloved actors. Lee Soon-jae, often referred to as the nation’s “TV dad” or “grandpa,” passed away early on November 25, 2025 at the age of 91. His family confirmed he died in Seoul, surrounded by loved ones, marking the end of a career that spanned nearly seven decades. The Korea Times+2Wikipedia+2
From Humble Beginnings to the Spotlight
Lee Soon-jae was born in 1934 in Hoeryong, in what is now North Korea. At the age of four, he moved with his family to Seoul. Later, while studying philosophy at Seoul National University, a screening of Laurence Olivier’s Hamlet inspired him to pursue acting. The Straits Times+1 In 1956, he made his stage debut in the play Beyond the Horizon, beginning a journey that would shape the history of Korean theatre, film, and television. India Today+1
A Career That Defined Generations
Lee Soon-jae was among Korea’s first generation of television actors. As early as the 1960s, he transitioned from theatre to television and film. Over his 70-year career, he appeared in well over 140 major dramas, films, and stage productions — a testament to his versatility and endurance. The Korea Times+1
In 1991–1992, his role as the stern patriarch in the weekend drama What on Earth Is Love? became iconic, with the show achieving cut-through popularity. The Korea Times+1 But Lee refused to stay locked in the “serious actor” archetype. In his 70s and 80s, he embraced comedic and variety roles, appearing in the hit sitcom High Kick! and its sequel, as well as starring in the travel-reality show Grandpas Over Flowers — earning him affection from younger generations. The Straits Times+1
Even in his late 80s and 90s, his love for the craft never wavered. He continued to perform on stage — delivering powerful performances in plays like King Lear — and took up teaching as a professor of acting at Gachon University, mentoring a new generation of performers. The Korea Times+1
Final Years and Legacy
Lee’s last screen appearance came in the 2024 KBS drama Dog Knows Everything, for which he won the Grand Prize (Daesang) at the 2024 KBS Drama Awards — making him the oldest actor ever to receive the honor. In a heartfelt acceptance speech, he reflected on a lifetime of dedication and emphasized that acting should be judged by performance, not age. tenasia+1
Unfortunately, declining health forced him to step back from a planned stage production, Waiting for Godot, in late 2024. The Korea Times+1
President Lee Jae-myung led the public tributes, calling Lee a “true national actor” whose work brought “laughter, emotion, comfort and courage” to generations of viewers. The Korea Times+1
Remembering a National Treasure
Lee Soon-jae’s passing leaves a void in South Korea’s cultural landscape. He was more than just an actor — he was a symbol of resilience, versatility, and passion. He bridged generations, genres, and media, offering countless unforgettable performances along the way.
For millions of fans, he will forever remain the kind-hearted grandfather figure, the stern father, the comedic uncle, and most of all — a true legend of South Korean entertainment.
May he rest in peace.
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