‘Squid Game’ Actor Lee Joo-Sil Passes Away at 81 Following Stomach Cancer Diagnosis
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Veteran actress Lee Joo-Sil, famous for her role as Park Mal Soon in the second season of the hit series ‘Squid Game’ on Netflix, has sadly passed away at the age of 81. The news was confirmed by her talent agency, 1230Culture, stating that she suffered from cardiac arrest at her residence on the morning of February 2. Despite immediate medical attention and being rushed to St. Mary’s Hospital in Uijeongbu, Gyeonggi, she could not be revived, as reported by South Korean newspaper JoongAng Ilbo. Lee Joo-Sil had been battling stomach cancer for the past three months, as disclosed by the Korea Herald.
Most notably remembered for her portrayal as the mother of undercover detective Hwang Joon-Ho (Wi Ha Joon) and stepmother of Hwang In Ho (Lee Byang Hun) in ‘Squid Game,’ this was her final acting venture according to IMDB. Her journey on the show has left a lasting impact on fans and viewers across the globe. In an inspiring display of resilience, Lee Joo-Sil had previously faced a stage 4 breast cancer diagnosis in her fifties, with a prognosis of just one year to live, revealed by Korean newspaper The Chosun Ilbo. She bravely fought the illness for 13 years before overcoming it, as she shared in a broadcast in July 2023.
“Everyone becomes stronger when faced with a crisis,” said Lee Joo-Sil during the broadcast as she recounted her battle. Despite the odds, she persevered through the challenging times, drawing strength from her children and her passion for acting. The actress highlighted the importance of not giving up when faced with adversity and credited her work in the film industry for providing her with a sense of purpose and determination. Her story serves as an inspiration to many, showcasing the power of resilience and determination in the face of life’s greatest challenges.
Beginning her acting career in 1964, Lee Joo-Sil’s talent graced various stage productions, dramas like ‘The Uncanny Counter,’ and the acclaimed movie ‘Train to Busan’ in 2016. Her diverse roles and exceptional performances endeared her to audiences and solidified her legacy in the entertainment industry. Notably, she also achieved a doctorate degree in Public Health from Wonkwang University in 2010, showcasing her dedication to continuous learning and personal growth.
The funeral service for Lee Joo-Sil will be held at Severance Hospital in Sinchon, Seoul on February 5, as reported by The Korea Times. Colleagues, friends, and fans alike will come together to pay their respects and honour the remarkable talent and spirit of the late actress. Her contributions to the world of entertainment and her unwavering strength in the face of adversity will be remembered and celebrated by many.
The passing of Lee Joo-Sil marks a significant loss in the entertainment industry, as she leaves behind a legacy of outstanding performances and a story of resilience that will continue to inspire generations to come. Her impact on the hearts of those who knew her and the audiences who admired her work will forever be cherished, immortalising her as a revered figure in the realm of cinema and drama. May she rest in peace, knowing that her memory will live on through the timeless characters she brought to life on screen.