The South Korean entertainment industry is mourning the sudden loss of actor Jung Eun-woo, whose real name was Jung Dong-jin, after news broke that he passed away on February 11, 2026, at the age of 40. The cause of death has not been disclosed, with the family requesting privacy during this difficult time. According to Seoul Shinmun, the specific cause will remain private out of respect for the bereaved family’s wishes.
Jung’s funeral wake was set up at New Goryeo Hospital Funeral Hall Special Room 2 in Gimpo, Gyeonggi Province, a detail confirmed by multiple outlets including MBN and NEWSIS. The funeral service was scheduled for noon on February 13, 2026, with the burial to follow at Byeokje Seunghwawon, as reported by Money Today and NEWSIS. The somber news has left fans and colleagues reeling, with tributes pouring in across social media and entertainment forums.
Jung Eun-woo was born in 1986 and graduated from Dongguk University with a degree in Theater and Film, according to Money Today. His career in the spotlight began in 2006 when he debuted in the KBS2 youth drama Rainbow Romance 3. From there, his star continued to rise as he took on a variety of roles throughout his two-decade career in both television and film.
He became a familiar face to drama fans through his appearances in a string of popular series. His credits include Hit (2007), Bride of the Sun (2011–2012), Well Raised Daughter (2013–2014), Return of Golden Bok, Five Fingers, Chuno, The Man Called God, Smile Dong-hae, and My Heart Sparkles. However, it was his performance in the KBS2 family drama My Only One (2018–2019) that particularly resonated with audiences. In this series, he played Wang Yi-ruk, the younger brother of Wang Dae-ruk (portrayed by Lee Jang-woo), a role that earned him significant recognition and affection from viewers, as highlighted by SportsQ and Money Today.
Jung’s filmography extends to the big screen as well. He appeared in movies such as Serial Wife, Bad Guys, Miss Change, and Same Age Tutor 2. His final film, Memory: Manipulated Murder (2021), now stands as his last work—a poignant reminder of his talent and dedication to his craft. As NEWSIS and MBN both noted, the 2021 release marks the closing chapter of his artistic journey, a fact that has only deepened the sense of loss among fans.
In the day before his passing, Jung Eun-woo made a social media post that has since drawn considerable attention and speculation. On February 10, 2026, he uploaded a photo to Instagram featuring the late Hong Kong actor Leslie Cheung (1956–2003), the late British singer Amy Winehouse (1983–2011), and himself. The accompanying caption read, “Miss, envy, regret.” This brief but evocative message, reported by SportsQ, Seoul Shinmun, Money Today, and NEWSIS, led many fans to wonder if it was intended as a final message or a reflection on the fleeting nature of fame and life.
The choice of Leslie Cheung and Amy Winehouse—both celebrated artists who died young—added a layer of poignancy to Jung’s post. According to Seoul Shinmun, fans were quick to draw parallels between Jung and the two international stars, speculating about the significance of his words. The post has since become a focal point for condolences, with fans leaving heartfelt messages and expressing their shock and sadness at his untimely departure.
Following the announcement of his death, tributes flooded social media. Netizens remembered Jung as a “wonderful actor” and shared memories of his performances, especially his role as Lee Jang-woo’s brother in My Only One. Comments such as “He will be remembered as a wonderful actor” and “I remember him acting as Lee Jang-woo’s brother—what happened?” captured the collective sense of disbelief and grief, as detailed by Money Today.
Throughout his career, Jung Eun-woo was known for his versatility and quiet charisma. He navigated a wide range of genres—from youth dramas and family sagas to suspenseful thrillers—always bringing a sense of authenticity to his roles. His colleagues in the industry have described him as passionate, dedicated, and kind, though few public statements have been made in the immediate aftermath of his passing, as the entertainment community continues to process the loss.
Jung’s journey was not without its challenges. After completing his mandatory military service in 2018, he returned to the screen with renewed vigor, taking on the role in My Only One that would become a defining moment in his career. His ability to connect with audiences, whether as a lead or supporting actor, set him apart in a competitive field.
While the precise circumstances of his death remain private, Jung Eun-woo’s legacy is already being revisited by fans and critics alike. His body of work spans some of the most beloved television dramas of the past two decades, and his presence on screen will be missed by many. As Seoul Shinmun and NEWSIS reported, the entertainment world is left with questions and a profound sense of absence, but also with gratitude for the performances and memories he leaves behind.
As his family, friends, and fans gather to say their final goodbyes, Jung Eun-woo’s impact on Korean drama and film remains undeniable. The outpouring of love and respect following his passing is a testament to the mark he made, both as an actor and as a person. The curtain falls on a career that, though cut short, touched the hearts of many.