South Korean actor Lee Sun-kyun, renowned for his acclaimed performance in the Academy Award-winning film “Parasite,” has been found dead in his car, confirmed by police during an ongoing investigation into alleged illegal drug use. The 48-year-old actor’s demise, suspected to be suicide, has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry.
The tragedy unfolded when Lee’s manager reported him missing, leading to the discovery of his lifeless body on Wednesday morning in Seoul. Forensic teams were deployed to the scene, and police have officially acknowledged the presumed cause of death as suicide.
Lee had been under scrutiny in an investigation by Incheon police, who confirmed that he had been questioned three times since October regarding alleged drug use. Despite multiple interrogations and a recent 19-hour detainment on December 23, Lee consistently tested negative for drugs. Throughout the investigation, he maintained his innocence, claiming he was deceived into drug use and subsequently blackmailed by an individual. Lee had even filed a lawsuit against the alleged blackmailer.
The police, acknowledging the ongoing legal proceedings, expressed condolences to Lee’s family and emphasized their efforts to prevent premature media leaks regarding the investigation. They confirmed the arrest of one man and one woman related to the drug inquiry.
A funeral for Lee Sun-kyun is expected to be a private affair, attended by family members and colleagues, according to his agency, Hodu & U Entertainment. The agency released a statement, urging the public to refrain from spreading misinformation and baseless speculation about the actor’s untimely death.
Lee’s legacy extends beyond “Parasite,” as he garnered praise for his roles in the 2007 television series “Behind the White Tower,” the 2010 series “Pasta,” and the sci-fi thriller series “Dr. Brain,” earning him a nomination for an International Emmy Award.