Actor Lee Sang-bo and Park Dong-bin's sudden deaths have been reported, prompting condolences from the entertainment industry and the public. Coincidentally, both actors passed away just before meaningful debut anniversary years, adding to the sorrow.
First, Lee Sang-bo ended his life in the year marking his 20th debut anniversary. His agency announced his death in March, and the cause of death was not disclosed at the family's request. He debuted in 2006 in the drama "Invisible Man Choi Jang-soo" and had continued steady acting work, but he suffered through painful times due to the consecutive losses of family members, depression and panic disorder.
In particular, in 2022 he endured a major ordeal after being mistaken for using illegal drugs during a medication process and accused of drug use. Later, the National Forensic Service test came back negative and he was cleared of charges, but the wounds he suffered in the process were deep. Still, he vowed "I will repay with acting" and resolved to make a comeback, showing his intent to get back up by returning in the drama "Elegant Empire."
And a month later, Park Dong-bin suddenly died just before his 30th debut anniversary. He was found dead at a restaurant in Pyeongtaek, Gyeonggi Province, on the 29th, and the location was known to be a place he was preparing to open himself, which added to the shock. Police are currently investigating the exact circumstances of the death, and there is no confirmation of criminal suspicion such as an external intrusion.
Born in 1970, Park Dong-bin debuted in 1998 with the film "Shiri" and went on to make his presence felt in a variety of works such as "Taegukgi: Brotherhood Of War," "Age of Wanderer" and "Sungkyunkwan Scandal." He became widely recognized for the "juice scene" in the drama "I think I loved" and was also beloved by the nickname "juice uncle."
Above all, he did not give up his will to act and to take on new challenges until recently. He was preparing to start a restaurant business for his daughter's health and his family. He was planning a new life, but in the end he died without realizing that dream, adding to the sorrow. Netizens have expressed condolences with responses such as "It was just when he was about to start again, it's so tragic," "I will remember him for his acting," and "I hope he is at peace there."
The news of the two people's deaths came just before meaningful milestones of 20th and 30th debut anniversaries in their acting careers. Because it was a moment when they were preparing for another leap forward, the sense of loss is felt even more strongly.
[Photo] KMG, provided by YPeople ENT
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