South Korean actor Song Jae-lim was found deceased at his residence in Seoul on Tuesday, at the age of 39. Police reported that his body was discovered by a friend around 12:30 p.m., shortly before they planned to have lunch together. While the exact cause of death has not yet been disclosed, authorities noted no visible signs of foul play, and a note was found at the scene.
Song, who is also known as Song Jae-rim, made his acting debut in the 2009 film “Actresses.” His rise to fame was marked by his portrayal of a warrior loyal to the king in the 2012 hit drama “Moon Embracing the Sun,” where he appeared in 20 episodes. Additionally, he gained widespread recognition through his participation in the reality show “We Got Married,” in which he appeared in 38 episodes.
One of his last projects was a leading role in the action-comedy film “Get Rich,” directed by Yang Tae-jin, which was reported to have entered post-production in late September.
The actor’s family expressed their desire to hold a private funeral for close family members only.
As South Korea continues to gain global attention through K-pop and television dramas, the nation also has a troubling history of untimely deaths among celebrities, which is often attributed to the intense pressures of the entertainment industry. Following the tragic death of actor Lee Sun-kyun in late 2023, concerns have been raised about the role of media coverage in such incidents, prompting calls from public figures to reduce sensationalist reporting.
It is essential for society to foster an environment where mental health is prioritized, and support systems for those in the entertainment industry are strengthened.
In times of crisis, it’s important to remind individuals experiencing distress that help is available. If you or someone you know needs support, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or visit SpeakingOfSuicide.com/resources.