‘Parasite’ actor Lee Sun-kyun dies aged 48: what was the cause of his death?

The South Korean film industry is mourning the loss of one of its brightest stars, Lee Sun-kyun, known for his role in the globally acclaimed film ‘Parasite’. The actor, aged 48, was found deceased on Wednesday, under circumstances that have raised many questions. He was discovered following a report of his disappearance, as confirmed by a fire department official in Seoul.

Controversy linked to death of ‘Parasite’ star Lee

Lee Sun-kyun gained international recognition for his portrayal of a wealthy family’s patriarch in ‘Parasite’, which swept the Oscars in 2020. However, his life recently became embroiled in controversy due to allegations of illegal drug use. Amidst a nationwide crackdown on drugs, Lee was questioned by the police multiple times, enduring a grueling 19-hour interrogation session over the weekend.

The circumstances of his death are shrouded in mystery. Yonhap news agency reported that Lee claimed he was unwittingly drugged by a bar hostess, who allegedly attempted to blackmail him. His body was located following a search initiated by his disappearance report, as stated by an anonymous fire official due to the sensitive nature of the case.

Compounding the mystery, Yonhap, citing police sources, reported that Lee was found in a car parked at a Seoul park, following a tip from his manager who also mentioned a possible suicide note left by the actor. Attempts to contact Seoul’s Jongno and Seongbuk police stations, as well as Lee’s agency HODU&U Entertainment, for comments were unsuccessful.

Tough drug laws in South Korea

Lee’s death highlights the severity of South Korea’s drug laws, which impose harsh penalties ranging from six months to 14 years in prison, particularly for repeat offenders and dealers.

Beyond his role in ‘Parasite’, which won four Academy Awards including Best Picture, Lee Sun-kyun was renowned for his performances in South Korean cinema, including leading roles in ‘Helpless’ (2012) and ‘All About My Wife’ (2014). He also starred in Apple TV+’s first Korean-language series, ‘Dr. Brain’, a six-episode sci-fi thriller released in 2021, where he played a neurologist investigating a mysterious family accident.

Lee’s untimely death has not only left a void in the entertainment industry but also posed unanswered questions regarding the events leading to his tragic end. More information is likely to emerge over the coming days.