It has been 9 years since the passing of the late Gu Bong-seo, the main figure of the 'first-generation comedy troika,' who brought smiles to everyone and received much love. As a comedy iKON and laughter's iKON, he continues to live on in the hearts of many.
The late Gu Bong-seo passed away on Aug. 27, 2016, due to age-related ailments, at the age of 90.
The late Gu Bong-seo, who formed the 'first-generation comedy troika' with the late Seo Young-chun and the late Bae Sam-ryong, was born in 1926 in Pyongyang, North Korea, and entered the Pacific Theatre Troupe led by Kim Yong-hwan in 1945, working as an accordion player.
During his time in the theatre troupe, Gu Bong-seo began his life as a comedian and officially debuted in the entertainment industry with the film 'Love Wave' in 1956. From the 1960s onwards, he led the Korean comedy world, appearing in over 400 films and more than 980 radio shows.
In particular, Gu Bong-seo gained great popularity through MBC's 'Smile brings good fortune.' He was loved greatly by the catchphrase 'Kim Soo-han's turtle and crane' and received numerous awards, including the special award at the 1st Blue Dragon Film Awards (group acting) in 1963, the Cultural Medal in 1987, the Order of Cultural Merit in 1992, induction into the MBC Hall of Fame in the comedian category in 2000, and the Entertainment Development Award at the 13th Korean Entertainment Arts Awards (acting) in 2006, and the Silver Medal of Culture in 2013. At the MBC Broadcasting Entertainment Awards, when he received a lifetime achievement award in 2016, the members of 'Infinite Challenge' also expressed their respect for their late senior.
Gu Bong-seo was also known for his belief that comedy should satirize flawed politics and society. Even after retirement, he lamented the reality of satirical comedy disappearing, stating, "If comedy can't purify society, its meaning and role will fade away."
After Gu Bong-seo passed away, Song Hae said, "He was a person who brought joy and courage to the people during difficult times, conveying a strong will to everyone he met." Eom Yeong-su reflected, "He was our great teacher and an excellent popular culture artist."
Now, the late Gu Bong-seo has become a star in the sky. Although he has entered eternal rest, the many catchphrases he left behind still remain in the hearts of the people.
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