President Lee Jae Myung has expressed his condolences for the passing of actor and former National Assembly member Lee Soon Jae.
On November 25th KST, President Lee wrote on his official Facebook page, “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.”
President Lee also reflected on Lee Soon Jae’s philosophy on acting. “Acting is a companion to life, capturing the stories of living human beings,” he wrote, adding, “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 stated, “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 that Lee Soon Jae’s legacy will endure: “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, “I can still vividly recall his expressions and voice. May you rest in peace.”
According to his family, Lee Soon Jae passed away early on the 25th at the age of 91. Before suspending activities in October due to health concerns, he continued acting with the play ‘Waiting for Godot While Waiting’ and the KBS2 drama ‘Dog Sounds’, pouring his passion into his final performances.
Although he devoted his life to acting, Lee Soon Jae also briefly entered politics, serving as a member of the 14th National Assembly (Democratic Liberal Party). Until recently, he taught as a distinguished professor in the Acting Arts Department at Gachon University, mentoring the next generation.
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