Investigation into Lee Sun-kyun's Death Urged by Parasite Director

The recent death of actor Lee Sun-kyun has put South Korea in the spotlight, prompting calls from the Parasite director and others for an investigation into his alleged involvement in illegal drug use. South Korea is known for its strict drug laws and has a history of cracking down on drug-related cases, regardless of the social status of those involved. Back in February 2023, Hellbound actor Yoo Ah-in faced public scrutiny and repercussions after being investigated for the alleged use of propofol and other illegal drugs, including the loss of leading roles.

In December 2023, Lee Sun-kyun, known for his role in Parasite, was summoned for questioning regarding his supposed connection to a drug case implicating other notable figures in the entertainment industry. Despite allegations of drug use at a nightclub, Lee professed his innocence and disclosed that he had unknowingly been given illegal substances as part of a blackmail scheme.

The inquiry also exposed Lee's extramarital affair, tarnishing his image as a devoted family man. Tragically, on December 27, Lee was discovered deceased in his car, an apparent victim of suicide. His passing has prompted Korean celebrities and actors to advocate for significant change.

Bong Joon-ho and directors want further investigation

Lee Sun-kyun’s vehicle was discovered parked near Waryong Park in the northern part of Jongno-gu, Seoul. The actor was found to have passed away from an apparent suicide. Authorities were alerted when Lee’s wife, actor Jeon Hye-jin, came across an apparent suicide note after her husband had left their home.

Lee had endured his third 19-hour interrogation with the police and had even asked for a lie detector test to prove his innocence. Despite his efforts, authorities closed the case after his death. The Association of Solidarity of Cultural Artists, as reported by The Korea Herald, made a public statement calling on authorities and the media to take action to prevent similar tragedies from occurring.

Following the tragic death of actor Lee Sun-kyun, the group expressed their shared belief that this kind of incident should never happen again. They are calling for a thorough investigation by officials to uncover the truth, requesting media outlets to remove articles that do not serve the intended purpose of the media, and urging authorities to revise the law in order to protect the human rights of artists.

On Friday, January 12, a press conference will be held, attended by Parasite director Bong Joon-ho, singer-songwriter Yoon Jong-shin, director Lee Won-tae, actor Choi Deok-moon, and the head of the Producers Guild of Korea, Choi Jeong-hwa, to demand further investigation into Lee's death.

The late actor portrayed Park Dong-ik, the wealthy family head, in the award-winning film Parasite. He had a successful and impressive career in the South Korean entertainment industry. At the 2023 SBS Drama Awards, many of Lee’s colleagues honored him. Following his passing, a woman believed to have blackmailed the actor has been arrested, as reported by The Strait Times.

Editor's P/S

As a Gen Z netizen, I am deeply saddened by the tragic death of actor Lee Sun-kyun and the circumstances surrounding it. The allegations of drug use, the extramarital affair, and the subsequent suicide paint a picture of a man who was struggling with personal demons and facing immense pressure. It is heartbreaking to see someone who brought joy to so many through his acting succumb to such despair.

The call for a thorough investigation into Lee's death by Parasite director Bong Joon-ho and other prominent figures in the South Korean entertainment industry is both necessary and commendable. It is crucial to uncover the truth behind the allegations and ensure that justice is served. The entertainment industry should not be a place where illegal activities and blackmail thrive. The well-being and protection of artists must be prioritized to prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future.