The entertainment world is mourning the loss of Lee Joo-Sil, an acclaimed actress known for her role in the globally successful Netflix series Squid Game. News of her passing has devastated fans worldwide, as she was a beloved figure in South Korean cinema and television.
The South Korean thriller series, created by Hwang Dong-hyuk, became a global phenomenon, capturing audiences with its gripping storyline about a deadly survival competition where participants play childhood games with fatal consequences for a massive cash prize. The show has not only broken records but has also earned prestigious awards, including six Primetime Emmy Awards and a Golden Globe.
Now, as the highly anticipated second season of Squid Game nears its release, fans are left in mourning following the heartbreaking news that one of its stars has passed away.
Fans Pay Emotional Tributes to Lee Joo-Sil
Following the devastating announcement, fans immediately took to social media to express their sorrow and share their admiration for Lee Joo-Sil’s legacy. Many highlighted her exceptional contributions to South Korean cinema and television.
One grief-stricken fan wrote:
“May she rest in peace. A true legend.”
Another added:
“This is incredibly sad news. Her talent was unmatched.”
A third person, reflecting on her impressive career, noted:
“Known for her unforgettable role in Squid Game and decades of outstanding performances, she leaves behind a lasting legacy. May she rest in peace.”
Meanwhile, another tribute described her as:
“An extraordinary actress with an undeniable screen presence. Rest in peace, Lee Joo-Sil. You will be missed.”
The overwhelming support and love from fans reflect just how deeply impactful Lee Joo-Sil’s work has been on audiences around the world.
Lee Joo-Sil’s Iconic Role in Squid Game
Lee Joo-Sil played Park Mal Soon, a pivotal character in Squid Game’s intricate plotline. She was the mother of Hwang Jun Ho (played by Wi Ha Joon) and stepmother of Hwang In Ho (played by Lee Byung Hun), who is more infamously known as the Front Man—the mysterious figure in charge of the deadly competition.
Her character added depth to the show’s compelling narrative, as the family ties between the police detective Hwang Jun Ho and his powerful stepbrother, the Front Man, were central to the undercover investigation subplot in the first season.
A Prolific Career Spanning Over Five Decades
Lee Joo-Sil’s journey in the entertainment industry began in the 1960s, and over the years, she became a well-respected veteran actress in South Korea. Initially starting her career in theater and voice acting, she eventually transitioned into television and film, earning a name for herself in K-dramas and major motion pictures.
One of her most notable roles, apart from Squid Game, was in the critically acclaimed 2016 zombie thriller Train to Busan, where she portrayed Mrs. Woo, the grandmother of the protagonist. The film, which became an international hit, helped further solidify her reputation as an actress capable of delivering deeply emotional performances.
Lee also held a long-standing role in the popular K-drama The Uncanny Counter, where she played a key character in a story about paranormal hunters seeking out evil spirits from the afterlife. Her ability to effortlessly adapt to different genres showcased her range as an actress, earning her immense respect from both colleagues and audiences.
The Circumstances Surrounding Her Passing
According to The Chosun Ilbo, a leading South Korean newspaper, Lee Joo-Sil passed away at her family home in Uijeongbu on February 2, 2025. Reports indicate that she suffered cardiac arrest, and her talent agency, 1230Culture, later confirmed her passing.
It has been revealed that Lee had been battling stomach cancer, a disease that remains one of the most prevalent and life-threatening cancers worldwide. Her declining health in the months leading up to her passing was kept private, and fans only learned of her illness after her death was officially announced.
However, this wasn’t the first time Lee Joo-Sil faced a serious health battle. In her fifties, she was diagnosed with stage three breast cancer and was given less than a year to live. Despite the grim prognosis, she defied all odds and survived, ultimately being declared cancer-free 13 years later. Her resilience and strength became an inspiring testament to her fighting spirit—a quality that undoubtedly influenced many of her powerful on-screen performances.
Will Lee Joo-Sil Appear in Squid Game Season 3?
As fans process the heartbreaking loss, one lingering question remains: Will Lee Joo-Sil make a posthumous appearance in Squid Game’s future seasons?
The highly anticipated third and final season of the hit Netflix series is set to be released on June 27, 2025. However, it remains unclear whether Lee had filmed any additional scenes prior to her passing.
While her presence in future episodes is uncertain, what is undeniable is that her contribution to the series and to the entertainment industry as a whole will never be forgotten.