Tragic Loss: Remembering The 'Squid Game' Veteran Actress Who Died At 81

The world of K-drama and global streaming was recently struck with a profound sense of loss, as news broke of the passing of a beloved veteran actress from the cast of Netflix's global phenomenon, Squid Game. The tragic news, confirmed in early 2024, marks a somber moment for fans eagerly awaiting the second season of the series. This article, updated on December 10, 2025, serves as a tribute to the remarkable life and enduring legacy of Lee Joo-Sil, an actress whose career spanned over five decades and whose final major role was in one of the most anticipated television events in history.

The passing of Lee Joo-Sil at the age of 81, following a battle with stomach cancer, highlights the vulnerability of even the most established figures in the entertainment industry. While her role in the upcoming Squid Game Season 2 was relatively minor, her presence as a seasoned performer brought a quiet gravitas, and her death leaves a void in the South Korean acting community that stretches far beyond the Netflix thriller.

Lee Joo-Sil: A Life and Career Profile

Lee Joo-Sil was a highly respected South Korean actress whose career spanned an impressive 50 years in film, television, and theatre. Born on March 8, 1944, her extensive filmography established her as a pillar of the K-drama and Korean film industry, often portraying the quintessential mother or grandmother figure with emotional depth and authenticity.

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• Full Name: Lee Joo-Sil (이주실)
• Born: March 8, 1944
• Died: February 2, 2024 (Aged 81)
• Cause of Death: Stomach Cancer
• Notable Roles in Squid Game: Hwang Jun-ho's Mother (also credited as Park Mal Soon in some Season 2 cast lists)
• Notable Filmography: Train to Busan (2016), The Uncanny Counter (2020), New Normal (2023), Hommage (2022), City of Violence (2006)
• Career Span: Over 50 years

The Tragic Circumstances of Lee Joo-Sil's Passing

The news of Lee Joo-Sil’s death on February 2, 2024, came as a shock to many, despite her advanced age. She passed away at her family home, just months after receiving a diagnosis of stomach cancer.

Her final months were marked by a quiet strength as she dealt with her illness. The veteran actress had reportedly gone into cardiac arrest on the morning of her passing, a final complication in her battle with the disease.

Tributes poured in from across the South Korean entertainment landscape, honoring her long and illustrious career. Lee Joo-Sil was not just an actress, but a cultural icon whose work resonated deeply with audiences, often playing roles that mirrored the struggles and resilience of the Korean public. Her death is a major loss not just for the cast of Squid Game, but for the entire K-content ecosystem.

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Lee Joo-Sil's Enduring Legacy Beyond K-Drama

While her appearance in the highly anticipated Squid Game Season 2 brought her global recognition late in her career, Lee Joo-Sil's legacy was already cemented through decades of powerful performances. Her extensive work in various genres showcased her versatility and commitment to the craft of acting.

A Career Defined by Depth and Versatility

Her filmography is a testament to her dedication, featuring roles in critically acclaimed works like the zombie horror blockbuster Train to Busan (2016), where she played a memorable supporting role. She also appeared in popular K-dramas such as The Uncanny Counter (2020), demonstrating her ability to transition seamlessly between film and television.

Lee Joo-Sil's performances were often characterized by a profound sense of realism. She had an unparalleled ability to embody the quiet suffering and unwavering strength of the older generation in South Korea. This depth is what made her a perennial favorite among directors and a respected figure for younger actors.

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Her Role in the Anticipated Squid Game Season 2

In Squid Game Season 2, Lee Joo-Sil was cast as the mother of detective Hwang Jun-ho, the police officer from the first season who infiltrated the games to search for his missing brother, the Front Man.

Although the exact extent of her role in the new season remains under wraps, her character is crucial to the backstory and emotional arc of Hwang Jun-ho, a fan-favorite figure. Her scenes are expected to provide a poignant link to the detective's past and the civilian world outside the brutal games. Her final performance will undoubtedly be viewed by millions, serving as a powerful, albeit posthumous, finale to her incredible career.

The K-Drama Community Mourns a Loss of Topical Authority

The death of a veteran like Lee Joo-Sil reminds the global audience of the rich history and deep talent pool of the South Korean entertainment industry. She was one of the last remaining links to a golden age of Korean cinema and theatre, having witnessed and participated in the industry's evolution from local productions to a global powerhouse.

Her passing is a reminder of other recent tragic losses in the K-drama world, which often faces intense scrutiny and pressure. However, in the case of Lee Joo-Sil, the mourning is purely for a life well-lived and a career that brought joy and moving performances to millions. The industry entities, including Netflix and the Squid Game production team, have offered their condolences, recognizing the immense contribution of the actress. Fans are now preparing for a bittersweet viewing of Squid Game Season 2, where they will see her final performance on screen.

The legacy of Lee Joo-Sil—the veteran actress, the cinematic mother, and the newest member of the Squid Game family—will be preserved in her vast body of work. Her life serves as a powerful testament to the enduring art of South Korean storytelling and the dedication required to sustain a 50-year career. As the world awaits Squid Game 2, her performance will be a cherished final bow.