South Korean Actor Song Young-Kyu Passes Away at 55 Following a Recent Controversy
Song Young-Kyu, a beloved figure in the Korean entertainment industry, was found dead in a parked car near Seoul on August 4, 2025. The news of his death has left the industry stunned and his fans, co-stars, and many others heartbroken.
Song Young-Kyu, known for his strong screen presence, gained popularity for his roles in films and TV shows such as Extreme Job, Hwarang, Tale of the Nine Tailed, Narco-Saints, and Big Bet. His work will be remembered for years to come. He received worldwide appreciation for his performances and became a trusted supporting actor in the Korean entertainment industry over the years.
However, prior to his death, Song Young-Kyu faced controversy due to a DUI incident. On June 19, 2025, he was arrested for driving under the influence with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08%, a serious offense in South Korea. This incident led to his removal from multiple acting projects, including ENA's "The Defects," SBS's "The Winning Try," and the stage play "Shakespeare In Love," severely impacting his career and public image.
The backlash and professional losses caused by the DUI incident likely contributed to considerable emotional and psychological stress in the weeks following. The possible connection between this incident and the stress he faced before his death in August 2025 appears to be significant.
No signs of foul play were detected, but the exact cause of Song Young-Kyu's death remains unknown. The timing and the circumstances suggest that the stress from the DUI backlash and career repercussions may have been factors contributing to his deteriorated well-being before his death.
The sudden death of Song Young-Kyu has raised serious concerns about mental health in the entertainment industry. Many people are now talking about the pressure South Korean actors face, especially when they are under the spotlight. It serves as a stark reminder of the importance of mental health and the need for support systems in the industry.
Song Young-Kyu leaves behind his wife and two daughters. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time.
[1] (Source for the information about the DUI incident and its impact on Song Young-Kyu's career)
[2] (Source for the information about the circumstances surrounding Song Young-Kyu's death and the potential connection to the stress he faced)
Celebrity controversies, such as Song Young-Kyu's DUI incident, can significantly impact an artist's career and public image, as seen in his removal from multiple projects following the arrest. His death on August 4, 2025, rounds off a career filled with entertainment contributions, leaving many questioning the mental health pressures faced by artists in the industry.
