For over seven decades, Lee Soon-jae has been a living monument to Korean acting—a master of stage and screen whose presence has shaped generations of performers and captivated millions of fans. But now, at the age of 91, the actor known for never missing a performance is taking a step back, sparking deep concern and reflection across the entertainment world.

A No-Show That Spoke Volumes

On April 15, during the 37th Korean PD Awards, Lee Soon-jae was honored in the actor category. But for the first time in memory, he wasn't there to accept it. Instead, his agency’s CEO, Lee Seung-hee, accepted the award on his behalf, delivering a message that struck a somber note:
“Mr. Lee Soon-jae couldn’t attend due to health concerns. He’s not doing well and is in need of support and encouragement.”

The announcement immediately sent ripples through online communities. Fans and peers alike expressed worry over the absence of Korea’s oldest active actor—a man whose dedication once pushed him to finish an entire performance despite injury, and who once insisted on performing the day he lost his mother.

Muscle Loss, Rehab, and Reluctant Rest

To calm the growing speculation, Lee’s agency clarified that he is not suffering from a specific illness but is instead dealing with age-related muscle loss, particularly in his legs. He’s currently focusing on rehabilitation and rest to regain mobility.

Yet the concern lingers. After all, this is a man who, even at 90, moved the audience to tears at the 2024 KBS Drama Awards, delivering an unforgettable acceptance speech after winning the Daesang for Dog Knows Everything. His performances have always carried a weight of wisdom, passion, and timeless discipline—and seeing him take a step back feels like the curtain closing on a treasured era.

A Legacy Etched in Grit and Grace

Lee Soon-jae isn’t just an actor; he’s a symbol of endurance. During a 2012 production of Le Père, he finished a live show with an injury—refusing to cancel. In 2008, after learning of his mother’s passing just before a performance, he famously declared, “The stage is a promise. It must go on.”

That promise is now on pause, and it’s stirring something rare: not just concern, but reverence. Rarely has a nation collectively held its breath for a single artist.

Though the spotlight may be dimmed for now, fans across Korea and beyond are lighting candles of hope. Whether or not he returns to the stage, Lee Soon-jae’s legacy is eternal—etched not just in awards or scripts, but in the hearts of those who were lucky enough to watch him bring stories to life.

Here’s to healing, and to one of Korea’s greatest.

Here are the top 5 K-dramas featuring legendary actor Lee Soon-jae, showcasing his remarkable range and contribution to Korean television over the decades:

1.  High Kick Through the Roof (2009–2010)

• Genre: Sitcom, Family, Comedy

• Role: Lee Soon-jae (grandfather/head of the family)

• Why it’s iconic: A massive hit that revitalized the Korean sitcom genre. His role as a quirky, old-fashioned yet lovable grandfather earned him widespread acclaim and solidified his image as a comedic powerhouse.

2. Dear My Friends (2016)

• Genre: Drama, Slice of Life

• Role: Joong Nam

• Why it’s a must-watch: A heartfelt series about aging, friendship, and dignity in the twilight years. Lee Soon-jae’s performance alongside a cast of veteran actors is deeply moving and reflective.

3. King of Baking, Kim Tak Goo (2010)

• Genre: Drama, Family

• Role: President Seo In-jong (Tak Goo’s mentor)

• Why it stands out: This drama was a ratings juggernaut. Lee played the wise and morally upright mentor who shapes the lead character’s journey, adding gravitas to the story.

4. Grandpas Over Flowers Investigation Team (2014)

• Genre: Comedy, Crime, Fantasy

• Role: Lee Joon-hyuk

• Why it’s fun: A comedic twist on detective dramas, Lee plays a young detective who wakes up in the body of an elderly man. His comic timing and energy made this a refreshing watch.

5. The Uncanny Counter (2020, cameo in Season 1)

• Genre: Supernatural, Action, Drama

• Role: Cameo as a respected elder figure

• Why it matters: Although brief, his appearance was symbolic—connecting generations of actors in a new-wave hit and earning nods from both older and newer fans.