A veteran Korean actress whose recent role in a global Netflix phenomenon brought her renewed recognition has passed away.

According to the New York Post, Lee Joo-sil, who portrayed Park Mal-soon in the hit series "Squid Game," died Sunday at her family residence in Uijeongbu, South Korea, following a brief battle with stomach cancer diagnosed in November 2024.

Lee's acting career spanned six decades, beginning in 1964 with stage productions and voice acting work. Her role as Park Mal-soon, mother of police detective Hwang Jun-ho and stepmother of The Front Man, Hwang In-ho, introduced her to a new generation of viewers worldwide.

Accomplished actress leaves lasting legacy in Korean entertainment

Lee's remarkable career included notable performances across various genres and mediums. Her portrayal of a grandmother in the 2016 zombie thriller "Train to Busan" showcased her versatility as a performer. Throughout her career, she appeared in numerous Korean drama series, including "The Uncanny Counter," "Country Diaries," "It's Beautiful Now" and "The Witch's Diner."

Prior to her recent diagnosis, Lee had already demonstrated remarkable resilience in facing health challenges. During her fifties, she received a stage three breast cancer diagnosis with a prognosis of less than one year to live. Defying expectations, she received the all-clear from doctors thirteen years later, marking an inspiring chapter in her life story.

The funeral service for Lee has been scheduled for February 5 at Shinchon Severance Hospital. Her passing has prompted an outpouring of grief from fans worldwide, who have taken to social media to express their condolences.

Final appearances in global streaming phenomenon

Lee's work in "Squid Game" continued into the show's second season, which premiered in December 2024. Her character appeared in the first two episodes of the latest season, which follows Lee Jung-Jae's character Seong G-un as he returns to the games after winning 45.6 billion South Korean won.

The second season's debut proved tremendously successful, achieving record-breaking viewership numbers. Nielsen data confirms it as the most-viewed series in a single week during 2024, accumulating 4.9 billion viewing minutes between December 23 and December 29.

The show's popularity has secured its position as the third most-watched TV season on Netflix, trailing only behind the first season of "Squid Game" and "Wednesday." This achievement further cements Lee's final television role as part of a groundbreaking cultural phenomenon.

Impact reaches beyond the Korean entertainment industry

Fans across social media platforms have shared their reactions to Lee's passing. The impact of Lee's passing extends beyond her recent work in "Squid Game." Her contributions to Korean entertainment span multiple generations of viewers, from early-stage productions to contemporary streaming content.

As of the announcement of her death, Netflix and the "Squid Game" production team have not released official statements regarding her passing. The third and final season of the series, which completed filming before her death, is scheduled to premiere on Netflix in June 2025.

Legacy preserved in the upcoming final season

The circumstances surrounding Lee's presence in the upcoming third season remain unclear. Having completed filming before her passing, there's speculation about whether her character will make posthumous appearances in the series' conclusion.

The show's narrative continues to evolve, with the second season introducing new plot developments involving her character's son joining forces with a fisherman to locate the mysterious island where the games take place. This storyline adds additional layers to the complex family dynamics established in earlier episodes.

The timing of Lee's final performances coincides with "Squid Game" reaching new heights of global popularity. Her contributions to traditional Korean entertainment and contemporary international streaming content represent a bridge between different eras of Asian television.

Why This Story Matters

The loss of Lee Joo-sil is not only a blow to the entertainment industry but also to the cultural heritage of South Korea. Her diverse roles have influenced countless viewers and inspired many aspiring actors. Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance through personal and professional challenges.

This story matters because it highlights the human aspect behind the screen idols we cherish. It reminds the community of the fragility of life and the importance of appreciating our cultural icons while they are still with us.

Moreover, Lee's life encourages a dialogue on health awareness, particularly cancer, fostering a greater understanding and support for those suffering from the disease.

Lessons to Learn from This Tragedy

While we mourn the loss of a great actress, there are lessons we can take from Lee Joo-sil's life and her final battle:

1. Resilience in adversity: Despite severe health challenges, Lee showed incredible strength and continued to inspire with her work.
2. Importance of regular health checks: Early diagnosis can significantly impact the management of diseases such as cancer.
3. The value of a supportive community: The outpouring of grief and support for Lee underscores the strength of community in times of loss.

Certainly, these points remind us that while preventive measures are crucial, crime or illness can strike anyone, and we should never place blame on the victim for their circumstances.

In conclusion, Lee Joo-sil’s legacy as an actress and fighter against life’s adversities leaves a lasting impression on us all. Her vibrant life, formidable career, and courageous final months offer poignant reminders of the indelible mark one person can leave on the world.