Parasite Star Lee Sun-kyun, 48, Found Dead Amid Drug Probe
South Korean actor Lee Sun-kyun, widely recognized for his standout performance in the Oscar-winning film Parasite, has tragically passed away at the age of 48. Authorities discovered him unconscious in a car at a central Seoul park on Wednesday. While the circumstances surrounding his death remain unclear, there are reports that he left home after leaving a note.
Lee had been under investigation since October for alleged drug use, with suspicions arising from an incident at a bar in Seoul. It was reported that he had unknowingly consumed illicit drugs given to him by an employee. Despite denying drug use at the employee's home, he had requested a lie detector test through his lawyer, and his drug tests yielded negative or inconclusive results.
Police expressed regret over Lee's death during the ongoing investigation, emphasizing that the proceedings were conducted with his consent. His agency, HODU&U Entertainment, issued a statement pleading for the avoidance of spreading unfounded information based on speculation.
Married to actress Jeon Hye-jin and father to two sons, Lee Sun-kyun had a prolific acting career spanning over two decades, starring in numerous films and TV shows. He achieved international acclaim for his role as Park Dong-ik in Parasite, a film that made history by winning four Oscars in 2020, including Best Picture.
The drug investigation significantly impacted Lee's reputation, leading to his removal from the TV series No Way Out, which began shooting in October. Drug offenses, especially those involving marijuana, are treated seriously in South Korea, carrying potential prison sentences of up to five years.
The incident adds to the recent scrutiny faced by South Korean celebrities regarding drug use. K-pop star G-Dragon was recently cleared of drug allegations, while actor Yoo Ah-in is currently undergoing a trial for drug use.
The country's authorities, under President Yoon Suk Yeol, have pledged a comprehensive crackdown on drug-related crimes, expanded the drug crimes department, and initiated a “total war” against drug offenses. The passing of Lee Sun-kyun marks a somber moment in the entertainment industry, prompting reflection on the challenges faced by public figures in the spotlight.
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