South Korean actor, Lee Sun-kyun, known globally for his role in the Academy Award-winning film “Parasite,” was discovered dead in a probable suicide. This tragic event follows his recent exit from the upcoming film “No Way Out” due to a drug investigation.

Reports state that Lee was found unresponsive in his car in a parking lot in Seoul, South Korea on Tuesday, December 26, 2023.

Lee, 48, who rose to international stardom as the patriarch in “Parasite,” had recently been implicated in drug use allegations, resulting in his withdrawal from the dark comedy “No Way Out.” 

His exit from the project occurred as Lee was under investigation for alleged drug use. The production company behind the film, Studio X+U, stated that Lee decided to step away from the project to tackle the ongoing situation. They also confirmed that the film’s production would proceed as scheduled.

The Incheon Metropolitan Police Agency started an investigation that implicated eight individuals, including Lee, suspected of drug use in local bars and residences. Lee’s legal representative stated that the actor would fully cooperate with the investigation. However, there was no direct confirmation or denial of the drug use allegations.

The legal issues and resulting impact on his career seemed to have a significant effect on the actor. Preliminary findings suggest that he may have died from potential carbon monoxide poisoning, a common suicide method in South Korea. 

Lee’s acting career reached impressive heights after the extraordinary success of “Parasite” at esteemed events such as the Cannes Film Festival and the Academy Awards. 

Lee’s extensive and varied portfolio includes notable performances in the 2012 suspenseful film “Helpless” and the highly-praised 2014 film “All About My Wife.” 

More recently, Lee had been charming audiences with his leading role in the Korean-language original series on Apple TV+, “Dr. Brain”, demonstrating his multifaceted talent in the television industry.