President Lee pays tribute to late actor Lee Soon-jae
Calls him “a great star of Korean arts and culture” and says his legacy will endure
President Lee Jae-myung expressed deep condolences on the passing of veteran actor Lee Soon-jae, who died on November 25, paying tribute to the beloved figure of Korean performing arts.
In a Facebook post titled “May the Great Star of Korean Arts and Culture, Teacher Lee Soon-jae, Rest in Peace,” President Lee wrote that the late actor, cherished by generations of Koreans, “will be remembered for a long time.”
President Lee praised Lee Soon-jae for dedicating his entire life to acting and elevating the dignity of Korean arts and culture, saying the late actor “brought laughter, comfort, inspiration, and courage” to audiences through his extensive work across theater, film, and television.
Quoting the actor’s philosophy — “Acting is a lifelong companion that carries the stories of living human beings” — President Lee reflected that, for Lee Soon-jae, acting served as a profound medium to convey the essence of human life.
He further noted that the actor’s deep respect for the craft, his professional discipline, and the dignity he embodied as a true elder “set an example for countless younger actors and left a lasting impression on all of us.”
President Lee emphasized that the actor’s body of work and the messages contained within “will continue to be cherished as part of Korea’s cultural heritage.”
He concluded his tribute by saying, “I can still vividly recall your expressions and voice. May you rest in peace.”