Actress Seo Yea-ji has paid tribute to the late actor Lee Soon-jae.
On the 25th, Seo Yea-ji took to her social media to express her condolences, writing, "To the teacher I respect and love the most, I love you. Thank you. I will remember you forever."
Seo Yea-ji also shared several photos with Lee Soon-jae, showcasing their close relationship. The images depict them holding hands, with arms around each other, and holding a cake together, highlighting their warm mentor-mentee bond. Additionally, Seo Yea-ji posted an image of a chrysanthemum to further express her mourning.
Seo Yea-ji and Lee Soon-jae co-starred in the 2013 tvN sitcom 'Potato Star 2013QR3.' In 2014, Seo Yea-ji gifted Lee Soon-jae a notebook with basic Spanish phrases to assist him during his trip to Spain for the tvN variety show 'Grandpas Over Flowers.' She also attended plays featuring Lee Soon-jae, such as 'Henri Grandpa and I.'
According to family members, Lee Soon-jae passed away early on the 25th at the age of 91. Funeral arrangements have yet to be made. Concerns about his health had been circulating since last year, both within and outside the entertainment industry.
Lee Soon-jae was the oldest active actor, known for his unwavering dedication to his craft across television, film, and theater. He remained active until recently, appearing in the play 'Waiting for Waiting for Godot' and the KBS 2TV drama 'Dog Knows Everything.' For his role in 'Dog Knows Everything,' he received the Grand Prize at the KBS Drama Awards last year, becoming the oldest recipient of the award.
Reporter Kim Ji-won, TenAsia bella@tenasia.co.kr