South Korean Actor Lee Sun Kyun Found Dead: Fans Outraged Over Bullying and Media Scrutiny
South Korea’s entertainment industry is in shock as news of the untimely death of top star Lee Sun Kyun, known for his roles in the Oscar-winning film Parasite, broke on December 27 KST. Police officials confirmed the actor’s death after responding to a distress call from his wife, who reported suicidal intentions mentioned in a note left by Lee Sun Kyun. The actor had been under intense media scrutiny due to his involvement in a drug case since October, a situation that had taken a toll on his mental well-being.
Lee Sun Kyun’s death has ignited outrage among fans, especially on the internet, who assert that the actor faced relentless trial by the South Korean media, leading to his tragic demise. Despite testing negative for drugs three times during police investigations, the actor was subjected to continuous surveillance and daily targeting, according to a source close to him.
The actor’s death is suspected to be a suicide, with police finding additional evidence, including burning charcoal briquettes in his car. Lee Sun Kyun had been cooperating with the police investigation and even expressed a willingness to undergo a lie detector test in a written statement submitted through his lawyer on December 26 KST.
Fans are expressing their frustration over the extreme bullying culture in South Korea, blaming the media and online netizen culture for harassing and shaming individuals endlessly for minor transgressions. Many are calling for a change in the harassment and bullying culture that allegedly pushed the talented actor to his limits.
Lee Sun Kyun’s involvement in the drug case, where he claimed to have unknowingly consumed narcotics, had already stirred controversy in October when several top-tier South Korean actors were implicated. Despite testing negative and explaining the circumstances, the actor faced months of harassment, leading to tragic consequences.
As South Korea mourns the loss of a talented actor, there are growing calls for addressing the issues of harassment and media scrutiny that may have contributed to Lee Sun Kyun’s untimely death.
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