The late actor Lee Soon-jae never let go of his passion for acting, even from his hospital bed.
On the 28th, MBC aired a special memorial documentary titled 'Actor Lee Soon-jae: Thank You for Everything,' reflecting on the 70-year acting career of Lee Soon-jae, who passed away on November 25.
The documentary revealed Lee's final moments in the hospital. He expressed his unwavering passion for acting, saying, "What do I want to do when I get better? Nothing but acting."
While battling illness, Lee was awarded the 2025 Acting Award. During his acceptance speech, he said, "To all the viewers, I owe you so much and have received a lot of help throughout my life. Thank you," which became his final farewell.
Lee's health deteriorated rapidly since last fall. Watching him receive the acting award, his agency's representative felt, "It seemed like a wish fulfilled. When he said the award felt heavy, it seemed to carry his 70-year acting career."
Lee appeared in 175 dramas, 150 films, and over 100 plays. Despite poor health, he never canceled a theater performance. A theater company representative recalled, "He was in no condition to perform. He couldn't walk or speak properly, and I pleaded with him to cancel."
Musical actor Kai shared, "He wanted to keep his promise to the audience and not inconvenience me. Knowing how important a single performance is, he went to the emergency room right after a 90-minute show."
Lee officiated weddings for several celebrities and their families, including Lee Seung-gi and Lee Deok-hwa's daughter.
Lee Seung-gi expressed, "He is the person I respect the most in my life. I asked him to officiate my wedding for a word of wisdom." Recalling their time on the drama 'The King 2 Hearts,' he said, "I was the king, and he was the chief secretary. He stood the whole time, saying, 'You're the lead of the drama.'"
Actress Ha Ji-won, known as the president of Lee's fan club, expressed her respect, saying, "He never complained on set, showing consideration for staff and fellow actors."
Jung Il-woo, who worked with Lee on 'High Kick Through the Roof,' said, "I wish I could ask him about acting now, but he's not here. He always told me to live with gratitude, to be an actor like a blank canvas, not to be arrogant, and not to aim to be a star when young. He laid the foundation for me as an actor," shedding tears.
Baek Il-seob, who appeared with Lee on 'Grandpas Over Flowers,' said, "Even if you have a chance to act over there, take care of yourself, don't work too hard, and live happily. Goodbye, brother," waving affectionately.
Lee Seo-jin, who narrated Lee's life with a calm voice, broke into tears, saying, "Teacher, thank you for everything. I'm sorry I can't join you on this journey."
Eun Jung Kim, TenAsia Reporter eun@tenasia.co.kr