Veteran South Korean Actor Lee Nam-hee Passes Away at 64 — Was Still Preparing for Performances Before His Death

(Seoul, April 23) Veteran South Korean actor Lee Nam-hee, who had been active in theater, film, and television for over four decades, has passed away at the age of 64, sending shockwaves through the entertainment industry.

His family confirmed on April 23 that he died at 5:00 PM on April 22 due to a chronic illness. His memorial hall is set up at Severance Hospital in Sinchon, with the funeral scheduled for 10:20 AM on April 24, where family, friends, and fans will bid their final farewell.

Lee began his acting career in 1983 through stage plays, building a strong foundation with rigorous theatrical training. He later expanded into film and television, earning widespread recognition for his nuanced and layered performances. His notable works include the film The Priests and hit dramas such as Six Flying Dragons and Doctor Prisoner. Even last year, he remained active on stage, appearing in Death of a Salesman.

In recent years, he continued to take on diverse roles, including a performance in the 2024 Netflix original series The Frog, once again showcasing his enduring acting prowess.

Throughout his career, Lee received numerous accolades, including the Korea Theater Association Acting Award in 1998, Best Actor at the 4th Korea Theater Awards in 2011, and Best Actor at the 48th Dong-A Theater Awards in 2012, cementing his legacy as one of the industry’s finest performers.