The Everlasting Profile of Lee Soon Jae, Always Cast as a Rich Person in Dramas

Kapanlagi.com - Not all actors can last nearly seven decades in the entertainment industry, but Lee Soon Jae is an exception. Born in 1934, this man is not only a living legend in the world of Korean acting but also a symbol of the "rich person" character in various iconic dramas.

Often appearing as a conglomerate, high-ranking official, or old aristocrat, Lee Soon Jae is known for his charisma and unmatched mastery of dialogue. The South Korean public and international K-Drama fans have even bestowed upon him the nickname 'national grandfather'.

However, behind the success and elite image, his career began with hard struggles, hunger, and even the decision to leave his comfort zone for his calling as an actor. Let’s explore how this legendary journey began and has endured until now.

1. The Beginning of Life and Interest in the World of Art

This is the life journey of Lee Soon Jae, full of determination (credit: asianwiki)

Lee Soon Jae was born on November 16, 1934, in Hoeryong, which is now part of North Korea. When he was just 4 years old, his family moved to Seoul, where he grew up in the Ahyeon-dong area.

His father worked as a soap seller, while his grandfather managed a real estate business. His interest in the arts began when he watched foreign films, such as Italian and French works that featured realism.

He idolized Laurence Olivier and attended various Shakespeare performances during a visit to England. While studying Philosophy at Seoul National University, his determination to become an actor grew stronger.

2. Debut and Struggles in the World of Theater

Lee's debut in the theater world occurred in 1956 with the performance "Beyond the Horizon" while he was still a student. He was active in the campus theater movement and joined a theater group with renowned Korean writers.

After completing his military service, Lee worked as the head of the broadcasting department. However, his inner calling kept bringing him back to the world of acting.

In a situation without a salary for over a decade, he persevered solely with idealism. His significant role on stage as Mercutio in "Romeo and Juliet" became a turning point.

3. Becoming a Familiar Face on Small and Big Screens

Lee made his television debut in the opening KBS drama titled SHOULD I BECOME A HUMAN TOO in 1961. In the 1960s-1970s era, he dominated the TV screen as a leading actor in various dramas.

However, he only started receiving payment in 1978 through the performance of "Death of a Salesman." Before that, almost all of his works were voluntary contributions.

His roles in films and dramas as officials, doctors, wise grandfathers, and even fictional presidents made him widely recognized. One of the most memorable is the sitcom High Kick! in 2006, which became a cross-generational hit.

4. Peak Popularity and Prestigious Awards

This is the life journey of Lee Soon Jae, full of determination (credit:asianwiki)

In his old age, Lee Soon Jae actually enjoyed the peak of his popularity through viral projects. In UNSTOPPABLE HIGH KICK, he played a grandfather caught in a "digital pornography" scandal, a scene that became a Korean pop culture phenomenon.

He also starred in the film LATE BLOSSOM (2011), which touched on issues of the elderly and became a box office success, earning him the Best Actor award at the China Golden Rooster Film Festival.

The Korean government also recognized his contributions by awarding him the Eungwan Order of Cultural Merit in 2018. He became a symbol of the revival of the older generation in an industry that often idolizes the youth.

5. Recent Activities and Personal Life

This is the life journey of Lee Soon Jae, full of determination (credit:instagram.com/kbsdrama)

Although he is already 90 years old, Lee is still active in starring in dramas, such as DOG KNOWS EVERYTHING (2024) which received the Grand Prize from the KBS Drama Awards.

He also ventured into politics as a member of the National Assembly of South Korea (1992–1996), but decided to step down because he did not fit in with the political climate at that time.

Off-screen, he serves as an honorary lecturer at two universities and is actively educating young actors. Lee is also known as the husband of Choi Hee-jung, whom he married in 1966, and they have two children.

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(kpl/vna)