Lee Seung-jae's passing has prompted heartfelt tributes from students and colleagues, honoring his legacy and impact on the arts.
November/26/2025 18:17
Tributes for Lee Seung-jae are pouring in. Yoo Yeon-seok, a disciple of Lee Seung-jae, revealed through his SNS, 'The teacher I met since university was a wonderful adult and a true master. I was able to endure the ten years of being unknown thanks to the teacher's words.' He continued, 'If you really want to do something, you must quietly persevere for at least ten years. Every time I met the teacher at school or on set, I was always amazed and learned from his passion for acting and his attitude as an actor. I am sincerely grateful for the teachings and love he showed to his juniors and disciples throughout his life. Teacher Lee Seung-jae, I respect and love you.' Yoo Yeon-seok, who obtained a master's degree in performing arts from Sejong University, formed a mentor-student bond with Lee Seung-jae, who was a professor of film arts at that time. Jung Il, who co-starred with Lee Seung-jae in the sitcom 'High Kick!' as a grandfather and grandson, posted several photos with him on SNS. He wrote, 'I am truly honored to have shared the moment of taking my first step as an actor with the teacher. I will not forget the words and thoughts you taught me and will continue to strive while keeping them in my heart.' He further expressed, 'I regret that time has passed without being able to visit, and I am deeply grateful for all the kindness you have shown me. Please rest peacefully. I love you, Grandpa.' Fan Jung-eum, who co-starred with Lee Seung-jae in 'High Kick!' in 2009, also expressed her condolences on SNS, saying, 'Teacher Lee Seung-jae, I respect and love you. For me, who knew nothing about the entertainment industry, the teacher was like a warm father figure.' She added, 'Thank you for leaving behind unwavering love and memories for many juniors over the years. I will never forget you.' SHINee's Minho shared a message on his SNS story on the 26th, stating, 'I felt and learned so much from being with the teacher.' He added, 'I will not forget the many things you taught me and will cherish them in my heart. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. From your junior, Choi Minho.' Various celebrities, including Lee Seung-gi, talent Chang Seong-kyu, and Girls' Generation's Yuri, mourned his death. Lee Seung-jae passed away on the 25th of this month. He was born in 1934 in Hwanghae Province and moved to Seoul with his grandparents at the age of four. After entering Seoul National University’s philosophy department, he debuted in 1956 with the play 'Beyond the Horizon' and became a TBC's first-term exclusive actor in 1965. He starred in 140 productions and continued to act passionately until he temporarily halted his activities for health reasons last October, appearing in plays like 'Waiting for Godot' and KBS 2TV's 'Voice of the Dog.' Furthermore, the South Korean government posthumously awarded Lee Seung-jae the Gold Crown Cultural Medal (1st class). Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism, Choi Fi-yong, personally visited the funeral home to present the medal to the family. Additionally, the Korean Broadcasting Artists Association has set up a mourning space at KBS headquarters and annex until the 30th for anyone to pay their respects. There are also plans to hold a separate farewell ceremony at KBS annex in conjunction with the funeral on the 27th.
Related Articles
On the morning of the 26th, a press conference for the new SBS variety show 'Hot-Blooded Basketball Team' was held in Seoul. Stars like SHINee's Minho and NCT's Johnny attended. The show follows the 'Rising Eagles' basketball team, led by former player Seo Jang-hoon, as they aim for Asian dominance, premiering on the 29th.
The 2025 SBS歌謡大典, held on December 25 at Incheon Inspire Arena, will feature a star-studded lineup of K-POP artists, including legends and newcomers. Hosted by Young K, Yujin, and Jemin, the event promises a vibrant atmosphere and special performances, celebrating K-POP's journey in 2025.
On the morning of the 11th, a photo wall event was held to celebrate the opening of LONGCHAMP's pop-up store at Lotte Department Store in Seoul. Celebrities including SHINee's Key, Kim Se-jeong, Red Velvet's Irene, and others attended. Key also had an emotional moment during a concert, while Kim Se-jeong expressed excitement for her new drama with Kang Tae-oh.
On the morning of November 6, Ha Ji-won left Incheon International Airport for New York to attend the K-Expo, taking place from November 6 to 8 at the American Dream Mall. The event will showcase Korean culture and entertainment, with Ha Ji-won serving as a promotional ambassador alongside other stars.
SM Entertainment announced impressive Q3 2025 results, with sales reaching 321.6 billion won (up 32.8%) and operating profit at 48.2 billion won (up 261.6%). Major artists like NCT DREAM and aespa contributed to this growth, alongside new IP developments and a focus on global expansion through the SM 3.0 strategy.
Taemin from SHINee is set to hold a concert titled 'TAEMIN LIVE [Veil] in Las Vegas' on January 16, 2024. This event will take place at Dolby Live at Park MGM, a venue known for hosting major artists. The concert aims to connect with North American fans and boost Taemin's global presence, especially before his appearance at Coachella. His recent single 'Veil' has gained significant attention, reaching No. 3 on Billboard's World Digital Song Sales chart. Ticket sales for the Las Vegas concert will be announced soon.
The 'Bichina' foundation, established by SHINee's Jonghyun's family, will host 'Hello Day', a busking event for youth artists on October 25 in Seoul. This event aims to connect young artists with audiences, featuring various performers and special guest BUMKEY, enhancing the event's quality.
Annie from ALLDAY PROJECT has been appointed as the new MC for the 2025 MBC Song Festival, taking over from Yuna after her 10-year tenure. She will co-host with Minho from SHINee and fan Minhyun, who has previously hosted the event. The festival is set to air on December 31 in South Korea.
Minho from SHINee will host a solo fan meeting titled '2025 BEST CHOI's MINHO <OUR MOVIE>' on December 13-14 at Korea University. Tickets go on sale on October 20 for fan club members and October 22 for the general public. The event promises to create memorable moments, and Minho is also active in theater and a new variety show.
In the latest episode of MBC's 'I Live Alone,' SHINee's Minho revealed his down-to-earth daily life, enjoying a meal at a budget-friendly buffet and discussing his use of public transport. He shared his competitive nature, admitting he races to press the bus stop button first, surprising his co-stars with his enthusiasm for the mundane.
