South Korean actor Lee Sun-kyun, renowned for his role in the Academy Award-winning film “Parasite,” was tragically discovered deceased in his car on Wednesday, amidst an investigation concerning alleged illicit drug involvement.
The 48-year-old actor, recognized for portraying the affluent patriarch of the esteemed Park family in the acclaimed movie, had been subjected to repeated police interrogations regarding accusations of illegal drug usage, which he consistently refuted through his legal representation.
Reportedly found unconscious on Wednesday morning, Lee was pronounced dead at the scene, discovered in his vehicle near a park in Seoul, in what appeared to be a case of suicide, according to a police spokesperson.
HODU&U Entertainment, Lee’s agency, subsequently confirmed his passing, expressing profound grief and despair in their statement. Family members and colleagues are set to attend his funeral, as conveyed by the agency.
The actor had faced inquiries regarding suspicions of drug use at the residence of a woman employed at an exclusive bar in Seoul’s Gangnam district, as reported by Yonhap News Agency. Lee contended that he was deceived into consuming the drugs by the woman. Despite enduring three rounds of police questioning and a lengthy 19-hour interrogation recently, Lee’s drug tests yielded negative or inconclusive results, according to police sources.
The ongoing police investigation garnered extensive media attention in South Korea, negatively impacting the actor’s public reputation.
Lee had an illustrious career in South Korean cinema and television, gaining global recognition for his portrayal in “Parasite,” which amassed multiple accolades post its 2019 release, including the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival and four Oscars at the subsequent Academy Awards.
Furthermore, Lee took the lead role in Apple TV Plus’s inaugural Korean-language original series, the sci-fi thriller ‘Dr. Brain,’ released in 2021. His performance in the show earned him a nomination for Best Actor at the International Emmy Awards last year.
The South Korean entertainment industry has been shaken by a series of drug-related controversies, involving K-pop idols and movie stars facing police scrutiny.
South Korea maintains one of the world’s strictest drug policies, where individuals can face legal prosecution for using illegal substances, even outside the country. The country’s president declared a “war on drugs” earlier this year, advocating for comprehensive governmental measures to combat drug-related issues. Consequently, local authorities intensified anti-drug campaigns and tightened measures against illegal substance smuggling.
The year 2023 witnessed a notable increase in drug-related arrests, with over 17,000 offenders apprehended in the first eleven months, marking a significant surge from the preceding year’s 12,387 arrests.
For anyone seeking support, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or 988lifeline.org offers assistance and resources.