Actor Lee Sun-kyun from ‘Parasite’ Passes Away Amid Drug Investigation, According to Police Reports

South Korean actor Lee Sun-kyun, globally recognized for his role in the Oscar-winning movie “Parasite,” has passed away amid an investigation into illegal drug use. Lee was 48 years old. Seoul police, after receiving a missing person report from his manager, discovered Lee in his car on Wednesday morning. Authorities presume suicide to be the cause of his death.

Forensic teams were seen investigating Lee’s car, which was sectioned off with police tape. The Seoul police confirmed that Lee had been interrogated three times since October regarding suspected drug use. His most recent questioning occurred on December 23, after which he was released the next day.

Throughout the investigation, Lee consistently tested negative for drugs, as reported by the Incheon police. Lee had alleged that he was deceived into using drugs and then blackmailed by the same person. In response, he filed a lawsuit against the alleged blackmailer. This lawsuit followed a tip-off to the police about his supposed drug use.

Two individuals have been arrested in connection with the drug case. On December 26, Lee had requested through his lawyers for a polygraph test for himself and the two apprehended individuals.

The police expressed condolences to Lee’s family and emphasized their efforts to prevent media leaks about his drug investigation in compliance with South Korean law. This law prohibits disclosure of information about a suspect before a public indictment.

Lee’s family opted against conducting an autopsy. His funeral will be held discreetly, attended by family and colleagues, as reported by the South Korean news agency Yonhap and his agency, Hodu & U Entertainment. The agency has appealed for the public to avoid spreading speculative or false information.

Following Lee’s death, various media events in South Korea’s entertainment industry have been canceled. This includes the celebration event for the film “12:12: The Day” and the presentation of a new drama by the network tvN.

South Korea is known for its stringent drug laws, with severe penalties for trafficking and dealing. Celebrities in South Korea have often faced career setbacks due to drug scandals. The justice ministry announced plans for a government-wide cooperation system to tackle increasing drug use. President Yoon Suk Yeol has committed to a robust approach in the fight against drugs.

Lee’s career spanned over two decades, and he gained international acclaim with “Parasite.” He was also known for his roles in “Behind the White Tower,” “Pasta,” and “Dr. Brain,” for which he received an International Emmy Award nomination. His last film, “Sleep,” received positive reviews and was praised by “Parasite” director Bong Joon-ho.

Lee is survived by his wife, the renowned actress Jeon Hye-jin, and their two sons.