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Heartbreaking news hit the South Korean entertainment industry on the morning of August 4: actor Song Young-gyu was found lifeless in a parked car in a residential complex in Yongin, Gyeonggi province. He was 52 years old.
A sudden death still shrouded in mystery
According to initial reports, it was an acquaintance of the actor who alerted the authorities after noticing a vehicle parked abnormally long in Cheoin-gu. The police, who arrived on the scene shortly afterwards, found that the vehicle had been parked for an abnormally long time. discovered the lifeless body of Song Young-gyu inside the vehicle. No suspicious traces or letters were found at the scene, but an investigation has been opened to clarify the exact circumstances of his death. Police also said they would be interviewing the actor's next of kin, and that an autopsy was still being considered.
A career held back by a recent scandal
This tragedy comes at a time when the actor was going through a difficult period. Last June, Song Young-gyu had been arrested for drunk drivingafter walking about 5 kilometers in Yongin, his home town. His blood alcohol level exceeded 0.08 %The case was referred to the public prosecutor's office. The case was referred to the public prosecutor's office, and the impact on his career was immediate.
He quickly announced his withdrawal from the play Shakespeare in Lovein which he played a central role. On the small screen The Defects (ENA) and The Winning Try (SBS) had taken steps to limit his on-screen presence. While in the first case, his scenes were cut or re-edited, in the second, as his role was minor, he was still visible in the episode broadcast on July 26.
A familiar face on the big and small screens
Song Young-gyu began his career in 1994, and over the years has established himself as an outstanding supporting actor, appreciated for his presence and nuanced acting. In particular, he made his mark in the film Extreme Job (2019), in which he played the fearsome chef Choi. This role, acclaimed by critics and audiences alike, gave him new visibility with a wide audience.
More recently, he has starred in 2 successful international series: Narco-Saints on Netflix and Big Bet on Disney+. Thanks to these roles, he gained recognition far beyond South Korea's borders, consolidating his place in the entertainment landscape.
A loss that resonates within the industry
The sudden death of Song Young-gyu has deeply affected fans and professionals alike. Many voices are raised to underline the crushing pressure that public figures are subjected to in South Korea, especially when scandal breaks. Once again, cancel culture has taken its toll on a person's life. While the investigation may shed light on the circumstances surrounding his death, one thing is certain: the actor leaves behind a rich filmography and a lasting memory in the hearts of television viewers.
Our thoughts are with his family, his loved ones and all those touched by his talent. May he rest in peace.
