South Korean actor Lee Sun-kyun, known for his role in the Oscar-winning film Parasite, was found dead, South Korea’s emergency office said Wednesday. He was 48 years old.
Lee was under investigation over illegal drug use amid an ongoing government crackdown on narcotics.
He reportedly was found unconscious in his car that was parked in Seongbuk district in central Seoul on Wednesday, the Yonhap news agency reported.
Police confirmed Lee’s identity following a search initiated by the actor’s manager, who contacted them.
Lee’s wife had reportedly found a suicide note after he left home, Reuters said. Police are investigating whether the actor took his own life.
In South Korea, stringent drug laws are in place, with drug offences generally resulting in a minimum prison sentence of six months. Repeat offenders and individuals involved in drug dealing may face penalties of up to 14 years imprisonment.
Lee had reportedly undergone three rounds of police questioning due to suspicions of using marijuana and other illicit drugs. The alleged incidents occurred at the residence of a hostess employed at a high-end bar in Seoul’s Gangnam district on several occasions since the beginning of this year, including last Saturday, Yonhap reported.
The actor took on prominent roles in various South Korean movies, such as the 2012 thriller Helpless and the 2014 film All About My Wife among others. He also starred as a rich family’s father in Oscar-winning Parasite.
In 2021, Lee took on the leading role in Dr Brain, Apple TV+’s inaugural Korean-language original series. This six-episode sci-fi thriller revolves around Koh Se-won, a stoic neurologist, as he endeavours to uncover clues to a mysterious family accident through the use of intricate brain experiments.
Access unlimited streaming of movies and TV shows with Amazon Prime Video
Sign up now for a 30-day free trial
Access unlimited streaming of movies and TV shows with Amazon Prime Video
Sign up now for a 30-day free trial
Additional reporting with agencies
If you are experiencing feelings of distress, or are struggling to cope, you can speak to the Samaritans, in confidence, on 116 123 (UK and ROI), email jo@samaritans.org, or visit the Samaritans website to find details of your nearest branch. If you are based in the USA, and you or someone you know needs mental health assistance right now, call the National Suicide Prevention Helpline on 1-800-273-TALK (8255). This is a free, confidential crisis hotline that is available to everyone 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you are in another country, you can go to www.befrienders.org to find a helpline near you.