South Korean actor Lee Sun-kyun, renowned for his role in the Oscar-winning film Parasite, has been found dead in a car in a central Seoul park, as reported by South Korea’s emergency office on Wednesday.
Earlier, police discovered an unconscious Lee at an undisclosed location in Seoul after his family reported his departure following a message resembling a suicide note. Subsequently, he was found unconscious in a Seoul park, later confirmed dead. Reports mention the discovery of a charcoal briquette in the car.
Lee gained international acclaim for his portrayal of the head of a wealthy family in Parasite, a role that earned him a Screen Actors Guild award in 2021. His versatile career included a nomination for best actor at the International Emmy Awards for his performance in the sci-fi thriller Dr. Brain in the previous year.
Prior to his global recognition, Lee was a familiar face on Korean screens, known for his roles in popular dramas like Coffee Prince (2007), Behind The White Tower, Pasta (2010), and My Mister (2018). His contribution to the entertainment industry spanned decades.
The news of Lee Sun-kyun’s untimely death has sent shockwaves through the South Korean entertainment community and saddened fans worldwide. Authorities are likely to conduct investigations into the circumstances surrounding his passing, while the public mourns the loss of a talented and beloved actor.
Lee’s legacy extends beyond borders, with Parasite marking a historic moment in cinema by winning the prestigious Best Picture award at the Oscars in 2020. His sudden demise leaves behind a void in the entertainment world, prompting reflections on mental health challenges faced by individuals in the spotlight.