The late Lee Soon-jae courageously took to the stage despite his deteriorating health. This performance marked the very last of his life.
On the 12th, KBS 2TV’s ‘Secret of Celebrity Soldier’ offered a poignant look into the life and acting journey of the late Lee Soon-jae.
Lee Seung-hee, CEO of the late Lee Soon-jae’s agency, shared that after filming the drama ‘개소리’ (Gaesori) – a demanding schedule involving over 20 trips between Seoul and Geoje in six months – the late Lee Soon-jae then performed in the play ‘고도를 기다리며를 기다리며’ (Waiting for Godot Waiting for Godot).
Lee Seung-hee candidly shared, “Honestly, he pushed himself too hard with his schedule. Performing 3-4 times a week when you’re unwell is incredibly difficult. His cough worsened, and he was diagnosed with pneumonia. Doctors said a full recovery wasn’t possible due to his age and advised caution, but he was determined to keep performing.”
During the run of ‘고도를 기다리며를 기다리며’ (Waiting for Godot Waiting for Godot), the late Lee Soon-jae was reportedly struggling even to walk, and his severe coughing prompted recommendations for him to go to the hospital. Yet, he still took to the stage that day. That performance ultimately became the final one of his life.
For approximately a year following his final performance, the late Lee Soon-jae continued to battle his health in the hospital. It was reported that even as his cognitive abilities declined due to symptoms of delirium, he continued to practice acting, a testament that deeply moved everyone who heard.
