Two months later again… 'lend' Jeon Yoo-sung followed by national actor Lee Soon-jae passes away
Korea's two giants of popular culture have left the world within just a two-month interval, plunging the public into deep sorrow. After Jeon Yoo-sung, the 'lend' of the comedy world, died on Sept. 25 from worsening pulmonary disease, earlier today (the 25th) at dawn veteran actor and former lawmaker Lee Soon-jae was reported to have died at the age of 90.
#. Jeon Yoo-sung, departed as a comedian with a funeral for comedians, the 'pillar of Korean comedy'
Jeon Yoo-sung died at 9:05 p.m. on the 25th at Jeonbuk National University Hospital. The only family member who stayed with him at the end was his daughter. Kim Hak-rae, president of the Korea Comedian Association, said, "He had been in serious condition for several days but remained clear-headed until the end and even tossed humor to visitors," and wiped his eyes.
The late Jeon Yoo-sung was more than just the 'first comedian'; he was an architect of Korean comedy's identity. He was the first to propose and popularize the term 'comedian.' He was an idea bank of peak-era comedy with works such as 'Humor No. 1' and 'Show Video Jockey.' He also left achievements such as founding the 'Iron Lunchbox Theater' and serving as honorary chairman of the Busan International Comedy Festival.
He also produced numerous juniors (Cho Sae-ho, Kim Shin-young, Paeng Hyun-sook, etc.). In life he worried about the future of comedy, saying, "If entertainers disappear, laughter disappears," and he supported Korea's humor scene until the end.
#. And just exactly two months later… national actor Lee Soon-jae also passes away
Following Jeon Yoo-sung in September, at dawn on Nov. 25 national actor Lee Soon-jae died at the age of 90. According to the bereaved family, he had been battling a chronic illness and quietly passed away surrounded by family that day.
Lee Soon-jae, who debuted in theater in 1956 with 'Beyond the Horizon,' appeared in dramas such as 'Heo Jun,' 'Yi San,' 'High Kick,' and 'The Red Sleeve,' moving across theater, broadcasting and education to become the 'national actor loved by Korea.'
Especially earlier this year he won his first lifetime grand prize at the KBS Drama Awards, becoming the oldest active recipient of the grand prize, and on stage at the time, supported by juniors, he cried, "I owe so much for my whole life. Thank you," leaving a deep impression on many.
However, in October last year he left a play midrun, raising concerns about his health, and last month at the 'Korean Popular Culture and Arts Awards' when Jeong Dong-hwan mentioned his health, the venue became solemn as his condition had worsened.
#. public reaction "consecutive bad news… I hope it's a lie"
With two veteran artists gone within just two months, netizens were deeply shocked. "I hoped it was a lie… I can't believe it." "Following Jeon Yoo-sung teacher and now Lee Soon-jae teacher… it feels like an era is ending." "I still vividly remember Lee Soon-jae teacher's final grand prize appearance." "The two were pillars of Korean entertainment and drama. Deep thanks." "Please rest in peace… I will remember the works you left behind for life."
On online communities and social media, messages of mourning and gratitude continue as people reflect on the legacy they left behind.
Jeon Yoo-sung shaped the face of Korean comedy, and Lee Soon-jae preserved the dignity of Korean acting. Though they worked in different fields, both devoted their lives to their professions and nurtured juniors. They also served as pillars of Korea's popular culture and shared the trait of not losing the 'dignity of the artist' until their last moments. As 2025 draws to a close, it still feels unbelievable that the two masters have passed away.
[photo] OSEN database
[OSEN]