Remembering Lee Joo Shil, Senior South Korean Actress Passes Away at Age 80

Kapanlagi.com - The South Korean entertainment world is mourning the loss of talented senior actress, Lee Joo Shil. On Sunday, February 2, 2025, she took her last breath after battling stomach cancer that ravaged her health. This sad news has been confirmed by her agency, Ilsamgong Culture.

Lee Joo Shil had undergone intensive treatment after her health condition drastically worsened. That morning, she was rushed to St. Mary’s Catholic University Hospital in Uijeongbu for medical assistance, including CPR efforts. Unfortunately, all those efforts were unable to save her, and she passed away at 10:20 KST.

Her passing leaves a deep sorrow for her family, colleagues, and loyal fans. For more than five decades of work, Lee Joo Shil captured the attention of many with her stunning performances and unforgettable roles in various Korean films and dramas.

1. The Beginning of a Career Journey in the Entertainment World

Lee Joo Shil, who began her career as a voice actress in 1965, eventually stepped into the world of acting in 1992 through the film "A Woman Who Won't Divorce".

Since then, she has transformed into one of the best supporting actresses in South Korea, widely known for her roles as a warm and loving mother, a characteristic that made her unforgettable in various films and dramas.

With her impressive acting talent, Lee Joo Shil managed to earn a reputation as a highly respected senior actress. Over time, she increasingly graced the small screen with her appearances in popular dramas, including "Train to Busan", "The Uncanny Counter", "Move to Heaven", and most recently "Squid Game 2", which became her last project before passing away.

2. The Endless Struggle Against Cancer

Lee Joo Shil, an unrelenting star, first faced a heavy trial when she was diagnosed with late-stage breast cancer in 1993. For more than ten years, she battled this deadly disease and finally achieved victory in 2006.

However, fate seemed not to be on her side; last year, cancer struck again, this time spreading to her stomach, causing her health condition to deteriorate further.

Despite this, her spirit to remain active in the entertainment world never waned, even as many witnessed the impact of the disease on her daily life. On her last day, tragic news came when she suffered a heart attack at her daughter's home, before being rushed to the hospital.

3. The Last Days and Sudden Departure

On Sunday, February 2, 2025, the South Korean film industry was shocked by deeply sad news: Lee Joo Shil, a legendary actress who had entertained audiences for decades, suffered a heart attack before being rushed to the hospital.

Although the medical team fought hard with CPR to save her life, fate had other plans, and she was pronounced dead at 10:20 KST at the age of 80. Born on March 8, 1944, she leaves deep sorrow in the hearts of her colleagues and loyal fans.

As of now, the family is still in mourning and has not provided much information regarding the funeral ceremony. However, although Lee Joo Shil has passed away, her body of work and dedication to the film industry will forever be remembered and appreciated by future generations.

4. An Inspiring Career Legacy

Throughout her career, Lee Joo Shil has starred in dozens of successful films and dramas. Here are some of them:

Famous Films:

• Train to Busan (2016)
• Svaha: The Sixth Finger (2019)
• Hommage (2022)
• New Normal (2023)

Famous Dramas:

• Squid Game 2 (2024)
• Goodbye Earth (2024)
• Move to Heaven (2021)
• The Uncanny Counter (2020)

From the various works she starred in, many viewers recognize her as a strong, kind-hearted, and loving mother figure. Her success in portraying roles has made her one of the most respected senior actresses in the Korean entertainment industry.

5. Public and Entertainment Industry Reactions

The sad news of Lee Joo Shil's passing has shaken the hearts of the South Korean public and fans worldwide.

Many artists and colleagues have continuously expressed their condolences through social media, while fans flocked to express their sadness on various platforms.

They fondly remember the iconic roles that have left deep memories in the dramas and films she starred in.

6. What caused Lee Joo Shil's death?

Lee Joo Shil passed away due to stomach cancer that had previously developed from breast cancer that she fought for over a decade.

7. What was the last drama starring Lee Joo Shil?

The last drama she starred in was Squid Game 2.

8. What are some famous films that Lee Joo Shil starred in?

Some of her famous films include Train to Busan, Svaha: The Sixth Finger, and New Normal.

(kpl/rmt)