Lee Ji-soo, the esteemed South Korean actress, has passed away at the age of 81 after a lengthy battle with cancer. She died on February 2, 2025, at her daughter's home located in Uijeongbu, Seoul. Reports state she collapsed and received CPR, but sadly did not wake up.
Her death marks the end of more than 13 years of persistent struggle against cancer. Lee first brought her fight to public attention when she shared her stage 3 breast cancer diagnosis on MBN's 'Special World', where she revealed, "I was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer and was told I had one year to live." It was during this tough time, at the age of 50, she was informed of her grim prognosis. Amazingly, Lee overcame her initial diagnosis and received confirmation of her recovery; unfortunately, cancer returned recently, prompting renewed concern for her health.
Lee Ji-soo is remembered not just for her roles but also her powerful presence. Her career took off when she debuted in 1964, leading to numerous opportunities across various forms of entertainment including television dramas, films, theater, and musicals. She became particularly beloved for her appearances on popular series, such as last year's 'Beauty and the Beast' and her role as the mother of Fan Jun-ho in Netflix's massive success, 'Squid Game 2'.
With her passing, the South Korean entertainment community has expressed deep sorrow and respect. Fans and followers mourn the loss of not only a talented actress but also a symbol of resilience and strength. Her contributions to the industry are irreplaceable, showcasing her versatility and dedication to her craft throughout her lengthy career.
Reflecting on her life and work, the words from WoW!Korea capture the essence of her impact: "Lee Ji-soo was well-known for her versatile roles across various entertainment media." This testimony not only highlights her dynamic range as an actress but also the love and admiration she garnered from audiences both domestic and worldwide.
Despite her struggle, Lee Ji-soo's spirit remained indomitable, with her legacy inspiring countless individuals, both within the industry and beyond. Her fight against illness and her significant contributions to Korean drama remain testaments to her character and commitment.
Lee's passing is felt deeply across South Korea, with her fans organizing tributes to celebrate her life. Through her remarkable career, she demonstrated perseverance, inspiring others to face their own challenges head-on.
Her story—marked by passion for her work and determination against life's hardships—resonates with many, proving her as not just another actress, but as an enduring symbol of hope and strength. The world has lost a brilliant talent, but her spirit and contributions will surely live on through the memories left behind by her brilliant performances.