South Korean Actor Lee Yong-joo Dies at 44, Remembered for ‘Blue Tower’

South Korean actor Lee Yong-joo, best known to many viewers for his role in the military comedy “Blue Tower,” has died at 44.

A friend announced his death in a social media post, saying it occurred on Saturday, Aug. 29, 2026. His family had not issued an official statement, while South Korean media reportedly attributed the death to cardiac arrest.

Lee disclosed in 2013 that he had hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, a heart condition that exempted him from South Korea’s compulsory military service. Reports of his death have renewed attention to that earlier disclosure.

Lee began his career as a model before moving into acting. His credits included “Princess Hours,” “Rude Miss Young-ae,” “Let’s Eat,” “Golden Pouch,” “Bad Detective” and “New Recruit.” His most memorable role came in “Blue Tower,” where he played a clumsy, likable recruit who won over audiences.

His remains were reportedly placed at the funeral chapel of Bundang Jesaeng Hospital before burial at the Funeral Culture Center in Seongnam. Fans of Korean dramas have shared tributes to the actor and his television work.