The world of cinema was left in shock and mourning with the untimely demise of acclaimed South Korean actor Lee Sun-kyun. Known for his remarkable performances, most notably in the critically acclaimed film Parasite, his sudden death has sent shockwaves through both the entertainment industry and his countless fans worldwide.
Lee Sun-kyun's acting prowess was undeniable, captivating audiences with his ability to seamlessly embody diverse characters. His role as Mr. Park in Bong Joon-ho's Parasite showcased his exceptional talent, earning him international recognition and accolades. However, behind this success lay a complex reality that ultimately led to his tragic end.
Police in the city of Incheon confirmed that Lee had been questioned three times since October as part of an investigation into alleged drug use.
Lee had been summoned by police most recently on December 23 and held for 19 hours before he was released the following day.
Throughout the investigation, Lee’s drug tests had all come back negative, Incheon police said, without specifying how many tests he had taken.
Lee had claimed he was tricked into using drugs and subsequently blackmailed by the same individual, police said. Lee filed a lawsuit against the alleged blackmailer, according to police, who added they had received a tip about his alleged drug use before he filed suit.
One man and one woman have been arrested in relation to the drug investigation, police said.
Lee appeared in “Parasite,” which won Oscars for best picture and three other categories in 2020. The class satire was the first non-English-language film to win best picture in the then-92-year history of the Academy Awards, and was the first South Korean movie to win an Oscar. In the film, Lee played the head of a wealthy family.
Emmy Awards for his performance in the sci-fi thriller “Dr. Brain” last year, as well.
Lee had undergone police probes into allegations that he used illegal drugs at the residence of a bar hostess. The investigation prompted extensive tabloid coverage. Lee insisted he was tricked into taking the drugs and that he did not know what he was taking, according to Yonhap.
The scandal led to the loss of a number of acting projects, AFP reported. According to Reuters, a first-time conviction on drug use charges in South Korea can lead to six months in jail and up to 14 years for repeat offenders. South Korea's laws are so stringent that Koreans who take drugs legally while abroad can still face prosecution upon returning home, according to AFP.
 Read more
Detroit Pistons dropping their 27th straight game with a 118-112 loss to the Brooklyn Nets. Liverpool vs. Burnley (0-2)
Sarah H
Also on site :