Song Young Kyu, an actor known for his roles in “Extreme Job” and “The Penthouse,” was found deceased inside his car in Yongin on August 4, 2025, marking a tragic loss for South Korean entertainment. The Yongin Dongbu Police Station confirmed that there were no signs of foul play, and authorities are currently investigating the exact cause of death while talking with his family.
Song Young Kyu, aged 55, rose to prominence with his role as Chief Choi in the 2019 blockbuster “Extreme Job.” He had a prolific career, appearing in more than 40 television dramas and numerous films since his debut in 1994. Among his notable appearances were guest roles in popular TV dramas including “Reply 1988,” “Memories of the Alhambra,” and most recently “The Penthouse: Season 3″—a hit series which tells the story of wealth, rivalry, and revenge in a luxury apartment complex known as Hera Palace. His recent involvement in “The Penthouse” gained attention not only for the series’ plot but also for his contribution as a seasoned actor.
Prior to his death, Song was under scrutiny for a DUI incident from June 19, 2025. He was caught driving under the influence in Yongin, his hometown, and was referred to prosecutors with a blood alcohol concentration above the legal limit. This incident caused significant backlash, leading to his removal from several ongoing projects including the dramas “The Defects” and “The Winning Try,” as well as the stage production “Shakespeare in Love.” These swift professional consequences highlight South Korea’s strict entertainment industry standards regarding public figures’ conduct.
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“The Penthouse: War in Life” is a South Korean television series that aired from 2020 to 2021 over three seasons. The show enjoyed immense popularity, focusing on the fierce clash among wealthy families and their efforts to maintain status and power, especially through their children attending the prestigious Cheong-ah Arts School. Song Young Kyu’s role in the third season contributed to the intricate storytelling filled with secrets, rivalry, and dramatic tension.
The actor’s death has shocked fans and the industry alike. Those who followed Song Young Kyu’s career know him for his versatility and the strong presence he brought to his supporting roles. His ability to portray complex characters with depth made him a memorable figure in the projects he was part of. The announcement of his passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes on social media, remembering his work and legacy.
Alongside his entertainment career, Song maintained a modest social media presence with an Instagram account where he connected with fans through posts and reels. His sudden death leaves the community in mourning, as he was preparing for new roles and continuing to build his body of work in Korean drama and film.
This recent news about Song Young Kyu comes as a sobering reminder of the pressures faced by public figures and the unforgiving nature of fame, especially within the Korean entertainment scene. His contributions to series like “The Penthouse” have left a mark on viewers worldwide, and his loss is deeply felt.
If you followed Song Young Kyu in “The Penthouse” or his other works, feel free to share your thoughts and memories below. Stay tuned for more updates as the investigation into his passing unfolds. We honor his legacy by remembering the impactful stories he helped bring to life on screen.