Veteran actor Lee Soon-jae, 90, is drawing public concern after reports that his health is not good.
On the 23rd at the Haeoreum Grand Theater of the National Theater in Jangchung-dong, Jung-gu, Seoul, actor Jeong Dong-hwan, 76, received the Bogwan Order of Cultural Merit at the 2025 Korea Popular Culture and Arts Awards.
In his acceptance speech, Jeong said, "There was someone who never failed to encourage me every time I performed a seven-and-a-half-hour play. It is unfortunate that this person could not be here. It is teacher Lee Soon-jae," adding, "I understand his health is not good. I sincerely pray for his recovery."
Concerns about Lee Soon-jae's health have been raised steadily since the end of last year. After receiving the oldest-best-actor grand prize in the history of the 2024 KBS Drama Awards, he temporarily halted filming of the drama "Dog Sound" due to health issues and stepped down from the stage, effectively suspending activities.
In August, actor Park Geun-hyung noted, "It doesn't seem to be a good situation," heightening concern, but at the time a close associate said, "His leg strength has weakened, making it difficult to get around," and added, "He is devoting himself to rehabilitation."
Debuting in 1956, Lee Soon-jae, who left behind numerous masterpieces including "Hur Jun," "Lee San," and "High Kick Without Restraint," has continued an acting career for nearly 70 years.