South Korean actor Song Young Kyu movies and TV shows career took a heartbreaking turn following the tragic news of his passing on August 4, 2025. Widely known for his strong supporting roles across dramas, films, and stage, Song was recently in the public eye due to a DUI incident, which overshadowed what had been a respected and steady presence in Korean entertainment.
Career and Filmography Overview
Song Young Kyu began his career in theater in the mid-1990s and went on to appear in over 50 productions, both on-screen and on stage. While he was never a headline-leading actor, his presence added emotional depth and believability to every project he joined.
Key Points Summary
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of Passing | August 4, 2025 |
| Location | Found in his car in Yongin |
| Age | 53 |
| Major Roles | Extreme Job, Suriname, Casino |
| Latest Dramas | The Winning Try, The Defects |
| Controversy | DUI case in June 2025 |
| Funeral Date | Scheduled for August 6, 2025 |
Memorable Performances in Film and TV
Song gained mainstream recognition after his appearance in the box-office hit Extreme Job. His character, a strict but comedic police chief, won the hearts of fans. He later appeared in Netflix series like Suriname and Casino, where his portrayals were layered with emotional nuance and a veteran’s calm presence.
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In 2025, Song was active in two prominent drama series:
- The Winning Try – He played a high school rugby coach named Kim Min Joong.
- The Defects – He portrayed Pastor Yoon Se Hoon, a mysterious and introspective character in a psychological drama.
Both roles marked a mature phase in his career, demonstrating his adaptability to diverse genres from action to character-driven narratives.
Impact of the DUI Incident
In June 2025, Song became embroiled in a controversy after being caught driving under the influence of alcohol. Reports confirmed his blood alcohol level was above the legal limit. The incident, which occurred late at night in Yongin, sparked backlash from the public and entertainment industry alike.
Due to the fallout:
- He was removed from an ongoing stage production.
- TV shows began discussing editing or replacing his scenes.
- Public perception took a significant hit, leading to emotional stress.
The DUI case remained under investigation, but insiders noted the actor had become visibly withdrawn after the scandal became public.
Tragic Death and Industry Reaction
Just weeks after the incident, Song was found unresponsive in his parked car. Authorities ruled out foul play, and no suicide note was discovered. His sudden death came as a shock to colleagues, producers, and fans.
Production teams of his ongoing dramas have since stated they will honor his memory while reviewing how to proceed with their current episodes. Some plan to retain as much of his work as possible as a tribute.
A Career Remembered
Though controversy marked his final days, Song Young Kyu leaves behind a career filled with impactful moments. His legacy includes:
- A diverse range of roles from comedy to crime thrillers.
- Consistent performances that brought heart and realism to supporting roles.
- A long-standing reputation as a dependable actor within the industry.
His funeral services are scheduled to be held on August 6 in Yongin. Friends, family, and fans will gather to say goodbye to a man whose talent spoke louder than fame.
Song Young Kyu’s story is a reminder of how easily a lifetime of work can be overshadowed by a single mistake. Still, many will remember him not for his final controversy, but for the characters he gave life to. If you’ve seen his work, share your thoughts or favorite roles below—we’d love to hear how he impacted you.