Veteran Korean Actor Song Young-kyu Found Dead Amid Ongoing Legal Troubles.
Song Young-kyu, a seasoned South Korean actor best known for his role in the 2019 blockbuster comedy Extreme Job, was tragically found dead on Monday morning, according to reports from local law enforcement and media outlets. He was discovered inside a vehicle parked in a residential area of Yongin, a city located just south of Seoul, around 8:00 a.m., by an acquaintance who promptly alerted authorities.
While details surrounding the circumstances of his death remain under investigation, his passing has shocked fans and the entertainment industry alike.
Song Young-Kyu’s Recent Controversy and Legal Issues
The actor’s death comes just weeks after he became embroiled in a drunk driving scandal that made headlines across South Korea. In June 2025, Song was involved in a DUI (driving under the influence) incident in Yongin. His blood alcohol concentration was reported to be above the legal limit for license revocation, leading to the case being referred to prosecutors for potential indictment.
The controversy had an immediate impact on his career. Following the incident, Song was removed from two television dramas that were in various stages of production — The Defects and SBS’s The Winning Try. Additionally, he was dropped from the stage production of Shakespeare in Love. These setbacks marked a sharp turn in what had been a long and respected career.
When did he start Song Young-Kyu Acting?
Song Young-kyu began his acting career in 1994, gradually building a reputation as a reliable character actor with a versatile range. Over the years, he appeared in more than 40 television dramas and participated in numerous films, playing both supporting and lead roles. His performance in Extreme Job, one of South Korea’s highest-grossing comedies, brought him widespread recognition and commercial success.
His television credits include memorable roles in historical and action dramas such as Hwarang, the Netflix crime-thriller Narco-Saints, and Disney+’s Big Bet, where he often portrayed complex, gritty characters. Song’s ability to bring nuance to a wide range of roles made him a respected figure in the South Korean entertainment world.
Song Young-Kyu Personal Life and Legacy
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Song was known to be a private family man. He is survived by his wife and two daughters. His untimely death leaves a void in the industry and among fans who admired his dedication and talent over the last three decades.
As investigations into his death continue, tributes are already pouring in from colleagues, fans, and members of the Korean film and television community, many of whom have expressed shock and sorrow over the sudden loss of a man who contributed so much to Korean storytelling.
