The 'national actor' Lee Soon-jae (90) is currently resting due to health deterioration and was unable to attend the award ceremony.
Lee Soon-jae was the recipient of the actor category at the '37th Korean PD Awards' held on the 15th at the KBS Annex Public Hall in Yeouido, Seoul, but he could not attend the ceremony and did not take the stage.
As a result, his agency representative, Lee Seung-hee, accepted the award on his behalf. She stated, “The teacher is feeling a bit unwell and could not attend,” and added, “He expressed his gratitude to the organizers and judges of the 'Korean PD Awards,' and he is currently feeling a bit sick. He needs a lot of encouragement and support. I would appreciate it if you could cheer for him just once.”
According to the agency, Lee Soon-jae is currently experiencing leg discomfort due to muscle loss from aging. He is resting and recovering.
Meanwhile, Lee Soon-jae, the oldest active entertainer, was born in 1935 and debuted in the entertainment industry in 1956 with the drama 'I Want to Be Human.' He has appeared in countless works and gained great love from the public through the 'Grandpa Over Flowers' series.
Until last year, he continued his active career by appearing in the drama 'Dog Bark' and the play 'Waiting for Godot.' However, he took a break after stepping down from the stage due to health deterioration.
In January, he made an appearance at the '2024 KBS Acting Awards,' bringing joy to many. At that time, Lee Soon-jae, who received the honor of the acting award, expressed, “Having lived a long life, such a day has come. I want to say to the viewers that I have relied on you and received a lot of help throughout my life,” moving those who heard his words.
