Director Bong Joon-ho calls for investigation into 'Parasite' actor Lee Sun-kyun's death
"Parasite" director Bong Joon-ho is calling for an investigation into Lee Sun-kyun's death.
According to South Korean English news outlet The Korea Herald, Joon-ho has joined The Association of Solidarity Among Cultural Artists, a newly formed organization of nearly 30 groups in the arts and culture. In a statement released to media, per The Korea Herald, the organization said it will advocate for the prevention of similar deaths in the future.
USA TODAY has reached out to Joon-ho's rep for comment.
"In the face of the tragic death of actor Lee Sun-kyun, we shared the same heart that this should never happen again. We will call for investigation officials’ probe to discover the truth, request media outlets to delete articles that do not fit their function as media, as well as urge authorities to revise the law to protect the human rights of artists," a statement sent to The Korea Herald read.
Lee was found dead in a car in a Seoul park last month at the age of 48. The death was ruled an apparent suicide after a police investigation into allegations surrounding illegal drug use.
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Lee was best known in the film world for his star turn in "Parasite" where he played the patriarch of a wealthy family. He clinched a Screen Actors Guild award for cast in a motion picture for his role in the film in 2021.
Lee is survived by his wife, actress Jeon Hye-jin and two sons. Joon-ho won a 2020 Academy Award for best director for his work on "Parasite," while the film also took home three additional awards including an Oscar for best picture.
If you or someone you know may be struggling with suicidal thoughts, you can call 988 any time day or night, or chat online. Crisis Text Line also provides free, 24/7, confidential support via text message to people in crisis when they dial 741741.