Korean theater legend Yoon Seok-hwa, known as a 'first-generation theater star,' has passed away on the 19th after a long battle with a malignant brain tumor. She was 69.
Yoon made her stage debut in 1975 and starred in productions such as 'Agnes of God,' 'Hamlet,' and 'Letters to My Daughter.' Her illustrious career also included musicals like 'Guys and Dolls' and 'The Last Empress,' as well as the drama 'The Miracle We Met.' She was a four-time recipient of the Baeksang Arts Awards for Best Actress. In 2005, she received the Presidential Commendation, and in 2009, she was honored with the Korean Culture and Arts Award.
Yoon Seok-hwa last performed in 'Hamlet' in July 2022 before being diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor in October of the same year.
Earlier today, the Korean Theater Actors Association mistakenly reported that Yoon had passed away at 9 PM the previous day, surrounded by family. This was later revealed to be a serious error during the fact-checking process.
The association issued an urgent correction, stating, "The previously distributed news of actress Yoon Seok-hwa's passing is not true." They apologized, saying, "We deeply apologize to the bereaved family and fans for causing confusion without verifying the facts accurately. We feel a heavy responsibility for the distress caused to the family, who are hoping for the actress's recovery."
Yoon's memorial service will be held at the Sinchon Severance Hospital funeral hall.
Reported by Da-yeon Jeong, Ten Asia light@tenasia.co.kr