Who was Lee Sun-kyun? ‘Parasite’ actor dies at 49, suicide suspected

Lee Sun-kyun, renowned for his role in the Oscar-winning film “Parasite,” was discovered dead in an apparent suicide amidst an ongoing investigation into suspected drug use.

The distressing incident unfolded when a man in his 40s, later identified as Lee, was found unconscious in a car at a central Seoul park around 10:30 a.m. Police, who subsequently identified the actor, noted the presence of a charcoal briquette in the passenger seat. Prior to the discovery, authorities received a report indicating that Lee had left home after leaving behind a memo resembling a suicide note.

The actor had undergone three rounds of police questioning regarding suspicions of using marijuana and other illicit substances. The alleged incidents took place at the residence of a hostess working in a high-end bar in Seoul’s Gangnam district. Lee contended that he was deceived by the hostess into consuming the drugs, emphasizing his lack of awareness regarding their nature.

Despite Lee testing negative in both the brief reagent test administered during police inquiries and the laboratory-based drug test conducted by the National Forensic Service last month, the investigation had been ongoing. The actor’s insistence on being misled by the hostess added complexity to the case.

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Who was Lee Sun-kyun?

Lee Sun-kyun, the accomplished South Korean actor, had established himself as a prominent figure in the entertainment industry. Throughout his career, which spanned several decades, Lee Sun-kyun showcased his versatile talent and garnered widespread acclaim for his contributions to film and television.

Born on March 2, 1975, in Seoul, South Korea, Lee Sun-kyun began his journey in acting with a passion that would define his professional trajectory. In the early stages of his career, he made notable appearances in various television dramas, earning recognition for his compelling performances. His ability to embody diverse roles with authenticity and depth set him apart, laying the foundation for a successful and enduring career.

One of Lee Sun-kyun’s breakthrough moments came with his role in the critically acclaimed film “Paju” (2009), where his nuanced portrayal garnered attention and accolades. Subsequently, he continued to captivate audiences with his roles in projects like “Oki’s Movie” (2010) and “Helpless” (2012), establishing himself as a leading actor in the South Korean film industry.

In 2013, Lee Sun-kyun further solidified his position with the popular television series “My Mister,” where his compelling portrayal of a middle-aged man facing life’s challenges resonated with viewers and critics alike. The drama’s success elevated his status as a respected actor and brought him widespread acclaim.

As his career progressed, Lee Sun-kyun continued to take on diverse roles, showcasing his ability to navigate various genres and narratives. His filmography included notable works such as “A Hard Day” (2014), “The Advocate: A Missing Body” (2015), and “Parasite” (2019), the latter earning international acclaim and winning the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival.

Throughout his accomplished career, Lee Sun-kyun’s contributions to the world of entertainment left an indelible mark. His legacy as a versatile actor, capable of delivering powerful performances across different mediums, endures as a testament to his skill and passion for the craft.