Lee Sun-kyun, the acclaimed South Korean actor known for captivating audiences around the globe, sadly passed away on December 27, 2023. With a career spanning over two decades, he left an indelible mark on Korean cinema through his unforgettable performances.
Born on March 2, 1975, Lee gained fame for his diverse roles in films like the thriller “Helpless” (2012), the romantic comedy “All About My Wife” (2012), and the crime/black comedy “A Hard Day” (2014). He achieved international recognition for his role in Bong Joon-ho’s Oscar-winning film “Parasite.”.Â
Lee’s journey in the arts began at the Korea National University of Arts, where he was part of the inaugural class of the School of Drama, graduating in 1994. He debuted in musical theatre in 2001 with “The Rocky Horror Show” and on TV in the sitcom “Lovers.”
Initially confined to smaller roles on screen, Lee’s perseverance eventually saw him in leading roles in various one-act dramas on KBS Drama City and MBC Best Theater, marking his rise as a respected figure in the entertainment industry.
Lee Sun-Kyun Early Life and Career Beginnings:
| Detail | Information |
| Name | Lee Sun-kyun |
| Real Name | Lee Sun-kyun |
| Net Worth (estimated) | $18 million |
| Date of Birth | March 2, 1975 |
| Place of Birth | Seoul, South Korea |
| Date of Death | December 27, 2023 |
| Cause of Death | Suicide |
| Age in 2023 | 48 years old |
| Zodiac Sign | Pisces |
| Profession | Actor |
| Nationality | South Korea |
Lee Sun-kyun Net Worth
As one of South Korea’s wealthiest actors, Lee Sun-kyun has an impressive net worth. Based on data from sources like Wikipedia, Forbes, and Business Insider, as of December 27, 2023, her net worth stands at $18 Million.
Lee Sun-kyun’s Net Worth Growth (2018-2023):
| Year | Net Worth |
| Net Worth in 2023 | $18 Million |
| Net Worth in 2022 | $14 Million |
| Net Worth in 2021 | $11.4 Million |
| Net Worth in 2020 | $8.1 Million |
| Net Worth in 2019 | $5.7 Million |
| Net Worth in 2018 | $3 Million |
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Career Highlights and Global Acclaim:
Lee Sun-kyun’s career reached new heights in 2019 with his unforgettable performance as the patriarch of the wealthy Park family in Bong Joon-ho’s Oscar-winning masterpiece “Parasite.” His nuanced portrayal of a man grappling with class tensions and the lengths he goes to protect his family resonated with audiences globally.
“Parasite” catapulted Lee into the international spotlight, earning him a Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture and an International Emmy Award nomination for Best Actor in a Drama Series for his role in the sci-fi thriller “Dr. Brain.”
Actor Lee Sun-kyun Investigated for Suspected Drug Use
In October 2023, news surfaced that Lee Sun-kyun was under investigation for suspected drug use. This led to his voluntary exit from “No Way Out,” a thriller drama series that had just begun production. On October 24, the Incheon Metropolitan Police Agency charged him with suspicion of using marijuana and psychoactive substances, and he was summoned for questioning on the 28th. A travel restriction was also imposed to keep him in the country during the investigation.
Initial tests on Lee’s hair samples came back negative for drugs, though further investigations were ongoing as of November 2023. Lee, through his attorney, requested an additional lie detector test, expressing concern over the unfairness of being accused based solely on another individual’s statement without concrete evidence.
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Lee Sun-kyun’s Relationship Status: Happily Married
In a lasting commitment, Lee Sun-kyun tied the knot with his longtime girlfriend, actress Jeon Hye-jin, on May 23, 2009, after seven years of being together. The couple joyfully welcomed their first son on November 25, 2009. Their family grew with the birth of their second son on August 9, 2011
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Tragic End: Actor Lee Sun-kyun Found Dead in Seoul at 48″
On the morning of December 27, 2023, at 10:30 a.m., the renowned actor Lee Sun-kyun was tragically found deceased in his car, parked in a central Seoul park. He was 48 years old. In a scene that hinted at suicide, a common method in South Korea involving charcoal briquettes was found in the passenger seat. This discovery followed a report by his wife, who alerted the police after Lee left their home, leaving behind a note resembling a suicide letter. Lee’s funeral arrangements are set to take place at the Seoul National University Hospital’s funeral hall.
Summing Up
Lee Sun Kyun’s untimely death by suicide had been a blow to the entire world. No one thought that a talented man like Lee with a good life would think of ending his life this way. His family members are still mourning his death. Fans believe that it might take some time for his loved ones to move on, as they are deeply hurt by the actor’s demise.
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