In a tragic turn of events, the South Korean film industry is mourning the loss of renowned actor Lee Sun-kyun, best known for his role in the groundbreaking film "Parasite," who was found dead at the age of 48 in an apparent suicide in central Seoul.
According to reports from Yonhap news agency, Lee's lifeless body was discovered in a car near Waryong Park on Wednesday, prompting a swift response from local authorities. Police suspect that the actor took his own life, revealing that they had received a report indicating he had left his residence after leaving a note.
Lee, who played the patriarch in the Oscar-winning film "Parasite," had been under investigation since October for alleged illegal drug use. The police had been conducting inquiries into his activities, following reports of his involvement with drugs such as marijuana and ketamine with a hostess at a bar in Seoul.
Despite negative or inconclusive results in his drug tests and his denial of using drugs at the hostess's home, the actor faced considerable damage to his reputation. Yonhap reported that Lee, who had a clean and family-man image prior to the allegations, had undergone three rounds of questioning, with one session lasting an exhaustive 19 hours last Saturday.
Expressing regret over Lee's untimely death, the police stated that the investigation had been conducted with his consent. Lee's agency, HODU&U Entertainment, issued a statement urging the public to refrain from spreading false information based on speculation and requested respect for the actor's final journey.
Online reactions to Lee's passing were mixed, with many expressing sympathy and acknowledging the challenges he faced. Some fans praised his work and shared their gratitude for the emotions he evoked through his performances.
Lee Sun-kyun, survived by his wife, actress Jeon Hye-jin, and two young sons, leaves behind a legacy spanning over two decades in the entertainment industry. Rising to international fame with "Parasite," he played a pivotal role in the film's historic four-Oscar win, including Best Picture, making it the first non-English language film to achieve such recognition.
Lee's death comes at a time when South Korean celebrities, including K-pop star G-Dragon and actor Yoo Ah-in, have faced investigations related to drug use. In a country where celebrities are held to high standards of propriety, Lee's passing shines a light on the challenges faced by public figures and the impact of societal expectations on their lives
