According to the Theater Actors Association, Yoon Seok-hwa passed away on the morning of the 19th at the age of 69. Known as a matriarch of the theater world, Yoon was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor in October 2022, following her final performance in the play 'Hamlet' in July of the same year. She had been battling the illness since undergoing surgery.
On this day, Gil Hae-yeon, chairman of the Korea Theater Welfare Foundation, expressed, "Yoon Seok-hwa was a pillar of the Korean theater community and a pioneer in advocating for the welfare of artists. Her dedication to protecting the rights and expanding the welfare of theater professionals will be remembered in the Korean performing arts scene."
Yoon Seok-hwa debuted in 1975 with the play 'Sweet Taste' and continued her acting career across theater, musicals, films, and television for nearly half a century. Her profound acting skills and strong stage presence earned her the love of audiences for many years.
She achieved box office success with numerous productions, including 'Agnes of God,' 'Duet for One,' 'The Last Empress,' 'Letters to My Daughter,' 'I, Kim Soo-im,' and 'Master Class.' Yoon was a four-time recipient of the Baeksang Arts Awards for acting, and she also received the 26th Dong-A Theater Award and the 8th Lee Hae-rang Theater Award, solidifying her status as a representative figure in Korean theater.
In 2021, she celebrated her 50-year acting career with the 'Yoon Seok-hwa Archive Self-Portrait' and took to the stage once more with 'Hamlet' the following year. Despite her diagnosis, she expressed her desire to be remembered as the most beautiful actress on stage, showcasing her passion for acting.
Beyond acting, Yoon left a significant impact on the performing arts industry. She founded the performing arts magazine 'Gakseok' in 1984, laying the groundwork for the expansion and documentation of performance culture. She also produced musicals such as 'Saturday Night Fever' and 'Nunsense,' and directed 'Saturday Night Fever,' winning the 10th Korean Musical Awards for Best Director. As the representative of 'Jeongmiso,' she managed theaters and galleries, contributing to the expansion of cultural spaces.
Additionally, Yoon played a crucial role in establishing the foundation of the Korea Theater Welfare Foundation and served as its second chairman from 2017 to 2020. She was instrumental in introducing scholarship programs for the children of theater professionals and establishing a welfare system for them.
Meanwhile, there was confusion due to false reports of Yoon's passing. The Korea Theater Actors Association clarified, "Yoon Seok-hwa is currently battling a brain tumor and is in a critical condition, but she is still breathing under the care of her family."
Choi Ji-ye, TenAsia Reporter wisdomart@tenasia.co.kr