Seoul, South Korea – December 27, 2023
In a heartbreaking turn of events, Lee Sun-Kyun, the beloved actor famous for his role in the Oscar-winning film “Parasite,” was found dead in an apparent suicide on Wednesday, as reported by Yonhap news agency. He was discovered inside a vehicle in central Seoul.
Investigation and Fallout
Lee Sun-Kyun had been under police investigation for his alleged use of marijuana and other psychoactive drugs. The scandal took a toll on his career, leading to his exclusion from upcoming television and commercial projects. Once celebrated for his wholesome image, the actor’s reputation suffered amid the controversy.
A Stellar Career
A graduate of South Korea’s prestigious Korea National University of Arts, Lee made his acting debut in 2001 with a television sitcom titled “Lovers.” He earned acclaim for various roles, including a charismatic chef and a diligent architectural engineer dealing with infidelity. Internationally, he gained recognition for his role in the 2019 Oscar-winning film “Parasite.”
Final Act: “Sleep”
Lee’s last film, the 2023 horror flick “Sleep,” received critical acclaim and was featured in the Cannes festival. In the movie, he played a husband whose sleepwalking leads to horrifying consequences.
Apology and Legal Consequences
In late October, Lee spoke briefly to reporters before meeting with investigators at an Incheon police station. “I sincerely apologize for causing great disappointment to many people by being involved in such an unpleasant incident,” he expressed remorse. South Korea’s strict anti-drug laws were looming, with even legal use abroad putting individuals at risk of prosecution upon return.
National Drug Policy
This incident comes amidst President Yoon Suk Yeol’s call for more stringent measures to combat drug trafficking. He emphasized that the country is no longer “drug-free,” reflecting South Korea’s strict stance against illegal drugs.
Legacy and Family
Lee Sun-Kyun is survived by his wife and actress Jeon Hye-jin and their two sons. The entertainment industry mourns the loss of a talented actor whose contributions left a lasting impact on the global film landscape. The keywords like “Lee Sun-Kyun,” “Parasite actor,” “suicide,” “Korean actor,” “Yonhap news agency,” “police investigation,” “marijuana scandal,” and “career fallout” echo the somber details of this unfortunate event.
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