Veteran actor Lee Soon-jae passed away on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, leaving behind his wife, Choi Hee-jung, and their two children. He was ninety-one years old. View this post on Instagram Instagram PostLee Soon-jae married Choi Hee-jung in 1966. The couple met when Choi Hee-jung was still a university student. She was the sister of a member of Kim’s student theatre troupe.The actor spoke about meeting his wife on the December 30, 2020, episode of the KBS2TV show 'TV Loves Us.’“There was a high school drama competition, and I was in charge of directing it. My sister-in-law was there. A female student I hadn't seen before came to see me and offered me two boiled eggs, asking me to look after her.”He continued:“My sister-in-law won an award that day. My father-in-law suggested we have a meal together. We did, and my father-in-law gave my wife money and told her to go see a movie.”He spoke about winning her affection and taking her on dates.“My wife had a lot of overseas performances. So, whenever she knew I was going to a certain hotel while I was abroad, she'd send a letter to them in advance. I think it was thanks to the letters that I felt moved.”He added:“I didn't have any money, so I pawned my watch and borrowed money. With that money, I bought theatre tickets and went on a date. When I got the watch back, I borrowed money from my parents.”More details on Lee Soon-jae’s passingAccording to reports, Lee Soon-jae, a veteran actor known for his roles in Men of the Bathhouse and Mom’s Dead Upset, passed away. The actor, who was also a politician, died in the early morning of Tuesday after cancelling his projects last year due to health concerns. View this post on Instagram Instagram PostDuring his award speech at the 2025 Korea Popular Culture and Arts Awards’ ceremony held at the Haeoreum Grand Theatre in Jangchung-dong, Seoul, on October 23, actor Jeong Dong-hwan celebrated Lee Soon-jae and dedicated his award to him. He also wished the actor a quick recovery.“There was someone who never missed encouraging me during my seven-and-a-half-hour plays. But today, that person could not attend. I know his health is not good. He is Lee Soon-jae. I sincerely hope for his recovery.”Also read: What happened to Conor McGregor? Former UFC champion claims he witnessed his own death from drug intake as he returns after medical treatmentAlso read: Can you buy Golden Globes tickets? Penske Media reportedly selling tickets despite official website still claiming awards night closed to the public