The South Korean entertainment industry is in mourning following the tragic death of veteran actor Song Young-kyu, aged 55.
Best known for his standout role as Chief Choi in the box office smash Extreme Job, Song’s untimely passing on August 4 has left fans, colleagues, and creators reeling.
With over 30 years of steady performances across TV, film, and theater, Song’s death marks the end of a prolific, albeit recently troubled, career.
A Sudden Goodbye
Song was found lifeless in a parked car in a residential complex in Cheoin-gu, Yongin, just outside Seoul. An acquaintance discovered him at around 8 a.m. and immediately contacted the police. Authorities confirmed that no suicide note was found, and there were no indications of foul play.
The DUI That Shook His Career
The tragic discovery came barely two weeks after Song had been arrested for driving under the influence. On June 19, his blood alcohol concentration exceeded 0.08%—a level that led to his driver’s license being revoked and referral to prosecutors.
The fallout was swift:
He stepped down from the stage adaptation of Shakespeare in Love.
His scenes in two ongoing dramas—The Defects and The Winning Try—were ordered to be minimized or cut.
What was meant to be another strong year in his career suddenly became a public relations and personal crisis.
The Work That Defined Him
Song’s career began in 1994 in children’s musical theater. Over the decades, he transitioned seamlessly between stage and screen, appearing in landmark K-dramas and international streaming hits.
His notable works include:
Reply 1988
Hwarang: The Poet Warrior Youth
Stove League
Narco-Saints
Casino
Big Bet
Extreme Job (2019), where his role as Chief Choi introduced him to a global audience.
Even at the time of his passing, Song remained actively involved in two prime-time dramas—testament to his enduring demand and talent.
Struggles Behind the Scenes
According to close friends and reports from Korean media, Song had been emotionally fragile in recent weeks. The weight of public backlash following his DUI arrest reportedly took a severe toll on his mental health. He had also been living apart from his wife and two daughters, staying alone in a small apartment in Bundang.
Sources said he was battling the dual pressures of declining roles and an unforgiving public spotlight.
Song Young-kyu at a Glance
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Age at death | 55 |
| Date of death | August 4, 2025 |
| Location | Parked car, Yongin, South Korea |
| Cause of death | Undisclosed; no foul play suspected |
| Recent controversy | DUI arrest in June 2025 |
| Survived by | Wife and two daughters |
| Signature works | Extreme Job, Reply 1988, Hwarang |
