The sudden death of actor Lee Sun Kyun has garnered significant international attention, with foreign media covering not only the news of his passing but also the details of his private funeral.
On the 29th (local time), international news outlets such as CNN and BBC reported that he family of the late Lee Sun Kyun said their final goodbyes in a private funeral. BBC detailed that last Friday, his family mourned with close colleagues, appealing to stop the harrowing and sudden visits to his home, agency, and funeral.
They noted the widespread love Lee Sun Kyun received in South Korea and the "destructive shame" that can stem from "excessive attention, social pressure, and criticism" faced by celebrities under police investigation, as stated by psychiatrist Peter N. Jongho to BBC NewsHour.
The reports also mentioned fans placing yellow post-it notes outside the funeral hall with messages like, "Rest in peace in the warmth of spring, wherever you go, during this cold winter."
The public's mixed reactions to Lee Sun Kyun's death were also covered. Some netizens commented, "He didn't die because of drugs, but due to the humiliation others inflicted on him," and "Defamation punishment in this country is extremely weak. Those who write recklessly without solid evidence should reflect." However, it was explained that not everyone was sympathetic to his downfall, as "he was not considered a perfect victim since he was at an entertainment venue with Mr. A and admitted to taking something given by him."
The articles pointed out the social stigma of drug use in Korea, noting, "Even ordinary people are ostracized by family and friends for drug use, and the criticism towards celebrities is even harsher. It's enough to ruin a career. Korea is not an exception when it comes to conservative social values and attitudes towards drugs."
Other international media reported, "Lee Sun Kyun's wife, Jeon Hye Jin, was immersed in sorrow at the funeral. Holding hands with one son while the other carried the portrait of their late father, tears were shed," and "A procession of friends and family could be seen following the hearse."
Previously, when Lee Sun Kyun passed away, international media outlets like Reuters reported on his death and the intensive police interrogation he faced for alleged illegal drug use, highlighting Korea's strict drug laws, "where violations can result in imprisonment."
BBC also reported on Lee Sun Kyun being under police investigation for drug allegations, stating, "Drug crimes, including marijuana use, are considered serious offenses in Korea, with consumption potentially leading to up to 5 years in prison."
Furthermore, they illuminated his international fame from the movie 'Parasite,' stating, "He gained international acclaim for his role as the wealthy father, Park Dong Ik, in 'Parasite.' The film swept four awards at the 2020 Oscars, being the first non-English language film to do so."
Lee Sun Kyun had been under investigation for drug suspicions since last October and was found unconscious in his car in a park in Jongno District, Seoul, on the 27th. His agency, Hodu&U Entertainment, announced, "Actor Lee Sun Kyun has passed away. We are inconsolable and devastated." His funeral was held on the 29th morning at Seoul National University Hospital in Yeongeon-dong, where he ended his 48-year life and entered eternal rest, accompanied by family and colleagues.
