Veteran South Korean actor Jang Mi-ja, best known for her iconic portrayal of formidable mothers-in-law, has passed away at the age of 84 due to health complications. The news was made public by sources within the broadcasting community on January 27th.
Jang's career began on stage when she made her debut in 1962 with the play 'Without the Pain of Breaking the Shell.' A year later, she officially stepped onto the scene as one of the first recruits for the DBS (Dong-Ah Broadcasting System) voice acting group. She later transitioned smoothly from theatre to television, where she became widely recognized for her impressive performances.
Over her lengthy career, Jang starred in many beloved dramas, including 'Land,' 'The Second Republic,' 'The Sons of Sol Pharmacy,' and recently, the JTBC series 'King The Land,' where she played the mother of a main character. Her defining role, which garnered her widespread acclaim, was as the strict mother-in-law in the SBS drama 'Couple Clinic: Love and War,' which aired starting from the year 2000. This role solidified her place as the 'national mother-in-law' within the hearts of many viewers.
Jang's portrayal of mothers-in-law often reflected societal norms and familial dynamics, making her character resonate with audiences across generations. Her ability to infuse reality and authenticity made her performances memorable and impactful. "Her realistic portrayal of the stringent mother-in-law made her iconic and beloved by viewers," reported multiple media outlets covering her passing.
Despite her onscreen persona, Jang was known for her warm and generous character offscreen. She often collaborated with her husband, fellow actor Park Woong, who she married decades ago. The couple worked together on various productions, highlighting their strong partnership both personally and professionally. Last November, they delighted audiences in the play 'Dancing Silver Portrait,' which showcased their enduring chemistry on stage.
The details surrounding her funeral are already confirmed, with her funeral service set to take place at 6 AM on January 29th at Seoul National University Hospital. Her resting place will be at the Seoul Metropolitan Cemetery.
Jang is survived by her husband Park Woong and their two sons, all of whom are mourning the loss of their beloved family member. Friends and fans of Jang have been extending their condolences and reflecting on her contributions to the entertainment industry, showcasing the love and respect she garnered throughout her life.
Colleagues from the acting community expressed their sorrow over her passing, noting how her legacy will continue through the impactful characters she brought to life over her storied career. She was not just an actress but also a mentor to many aspiring artists.
Jang’s influence extends beyond her roles; she embodies the transition of Korean media from traditional theatre to popular television dramas, paving the way for future generations of actors. Reflecting on her contributions, many noted, "She shaped the image of mothers-in-law for Korean dramas, and her characters will forever remain etched in our memories."
Her career highlights include pivotal roles and collaborations with various major networks and production teams, contributing richly to South Korea's cultural narrative through performance arts. The shock of her passing resonates deeply across the community, marking the end of an era for many fans who grew up watching her performances.
Jang Mi-ja will be remembered not just for her roles but for the heart she brought to her performances and the love she shared with family and fans. From strong performances on stage to powerful emotional portrayals on-screen, her legacy as one of Korea’s beloved actresses will continue to inspire.