Actor Lee Sun Gyun, who passed away on the 27th at the age of 48, was a monumental figure who rose from obscurity in his twenties to become a world star in his forties. This year was particularly significant as two films he starred in were invited to the Cannes Film Festival, marking the pinnacle of his 20-year acting career. 
His sudden death has thus come as a shock and a deep loss.

Born in 1975, Lee Sun Gyun debuted in the music video for "It's Okay" by Bizzy in 1999, after enrolling in the Korea National University of Arts. Although he debuted on television in the 2001 MBC sitcom "Lovers," he spent many years in minor and supporting roles. He slowly built his reputation through leading roles in single-episode dramas like MBC's "Best Theater" and KBS's "Drama City."

Lee Sun Gyun’s breakthrough came in 2007, at the age of 32, with the MBC medical drama "White Tower," where he played the upright doctor Choi Do-young, gaining public recognition. That same year, he played the musician Choi Han-sung in "Coffee Prince," solidifying his presence as a lead and supporting actor. He received the Golden Acting Award in the mini-series category at the MBC Drama Awards for these two roles, marking his first acting award since his debut.

Following this, Lee Sun Gyun became well-known with dramas like "Pasta" (2010) and "Golden Time" (2012). His unique acting style in expressing anger earned him the nickname "Rage Sun Gyun." 

His success extended to films, with hits like "Petty Romance" (2010), "The Apprehenders" (2011), "Helpless" (2012), "All About My Wife" (2012), and "A Hard Day" (2014), establishing him as a box-office guarantee.

He also showcased his acting skills in independent and art films like Hong Sang-soo's "Oki's Movie" (2010) and "Our Sunhi" (2013).

His role as CEO Park in Bong Joon-ho's "Parasite" (2019) catapulted him to global fame, with the film winning the Palme d'Or at Cannes and the Academy Award for Best Picture.

Lee Sun Gyun also captured the hearts of domestic fans with his portrayal of a true adult in the drama "My Mister" (2018) alongside IU, forming a diverse fan base.

His expansive acting range, capable of handling comedy, thriller, drama, and romance, and his distinctive voice were among his strengths as an actor.

This year, he reached the zenith of his career as his films "Escape: Project Silence" and "Sleep" were invited to Cannes.

However, in October, news of his investigation for drug use allegations shocked the public. As a result, the release of his films "Escape: Project Silence" and "The Country of Happiness" was postponed, and he was replaced by Jo Jin-woong in the drama "No Way Out."

Lee Sun Gyun appeared for police investigations three times and tested negative in both the preliminary tests and the detailed examinations by the National Forensic Service.

The day before his death, he requested a polygraph test, claiming that the only evidence against him was the testimony of a nightclub manager.