Known and respected as one of the best actors of the century, Lee Soon Jae’s passing has taken a shock to all.
As one of the most renowned veteran actors, Lee Soon Jae has left a mark on the Korean entertainment industry. His contribution to the drama and film industry has been recognized throughout his career.
After taking home the highest honor, the Grand Prize, at the ‘2024 KBS Drama Awards’, and becoming the oldest recipient of the award, Lee Soon Jae was also posthumously awarded the Gold Crown Order of Cultural Merit. The government had recognized the actor's contributions to the development of popular culture and the enhancement of cultural enjoyment for the public over more than half a century, and on the same day conferred upon him the Gold Crown Order of Cultural Merit (First Class).
In commemoration of his excellence on screen, here’s a look back at his iconic character roles.
1. Grandpa Lee Soon Jae from ‘High Kick Through the Roof’
Probably one of the most well-known, if not the role, that Lee Soon Jae was known for: the blunt grandfather in the Korean sitcom ‘High Kick Through the Roof.’ His comedic timing and bickering dynamic with his son-in-law were loved by so many viewers that even some of his catchphrases became cultural memes.
2. So Baek from ‘The Return of Illjimae’
Playing the role of a wise, grounding elder who is in support of the main lead, his character presented a deep performance that resonated with many viewers, thus further deepening his mark as one of Korea’s top Korean historical drama actors.
3. King Lee Jae Kang from ‘The King 2 Hearts’
A beloved drama overall, Lee Soon Jae played the role of the King of South Korea. The noble heart and warm gestures that lead to lots of emotional growth within the characters became some of the most favorite scenes within this drama.
4. Yoo Ui Tae from ‘Hur Jun’
The role that cemented his name as one of the best actors in the industry was through this project that Lee Soon Jae earned himself the MBC Golden Acting Award and the Grimae Award. As one of the highest-rated dramas in Korean history, and for his portrayal of a master physician, this is one of the roles he was quite well known for.
5. Priest from ‘Dae Jo Yeong’
Never underestimate the power that a supporting figure can bring to the storyline, for his role in Dae Jo Yeong as the priest earned this actor the KBS Lifetime Achievement Award.
6. The Great Monk in 'Big Family'
In the film, 'Big Family,' Lee Soon Jae plays the role of The Great Monk, bringing his seasoned acting to bring life to the character of The Great Monk.
7. Kim Man Seok in 'Late Blossom'
' Late Blossom' quietly captures love in old age and the final stages of life. Lee Soon Jae and Yoon So Jung portray a couple slowly drawing closer to each other, while Song Jae Ho and Kim Soo Mi depict a bickering but deeply caring couple navigating daily life.
SEE ALSO: Remembering Lee Soon Jae: 'You Quiz on the Block' spotlights his lifelong dedication to acting
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