Lee Sun-kyun, a South Korean actor, aged 48, renowned for his portrayal of the affluent patriarch in the critically acclaimed movie "Parasite," was discovered deceased on Wednesday in a suspected suicide at a park in Seoul, as confirmed by officials in the city.
As reported by AP News, Lee was discovered by police and emergency officers in what they initially believed to be an unconscious state inside a car parked on a street in northern Seoul. Subsequently, emergency officers confirmed his death, as stated by Seoul's Seongbuk police station.
Seongbuk police stated that they had been actively searching for Lee, after receiving a report of his disappearance.
Police refused to provide further details such as whether they had determined Lee killed himself. However, South Korean media organizations, including Yonhap news agency, reported that Lee's family had informed the police earlier on Wednesday that he had left home after leaving a message resembling a suicide note. Later his body was transported to a nearby Seoul hospital, according to Seongbuk police.
Starred in the film 'Parasite'
In 2020, "Parasite" won four Oscars, including best picture. This class satire made history as the first non-English-language film to win the prestigious award in the 92-year history of the Academy Awards. It also marked the first time a South Korean movie received an Oscar. Lee, who portrayed the wealthy family's leader, played a significant role in the film's success.
In the film, Lee portrays the character of Mr Park, whose affluent home is infiltrated by lower-class family members pretending to be skilled household staff in a complex plan that culminates in a violent outcome. Last year, he was also nominated for best actor at the International Emmy Awards for his role in the sci-fi thriller "Dr. Brain."
Lee, born in 1975, throughout his career, Lee has held prominent roles in South Korean films like the suspenseful "Helpless" in 2012 and "All About My Wife" in 2014. He has also received critical acclaim for his performance in the highly regarded 2018 television series "My Mister".
Lee was investigated by the police for allegations of using illegal drugs at the residence of a bar hostess. Lee also filed a suit against two people including the hostess, alleging that they blackmailed him. The investigation received extensive tabloid coverage. Lee insisted he was tricked into taking the drugs and that he did not know what he was consuming, according to Yonhap.
(With Input from agencies)
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