Veteran Actor Lee Soon-jae Suffered Hearing and Vision Loss, Memorized Lines by Ear
Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
TLDR
- Veteran South Korean actor Lee Soon-jae struggled with hearing and vision loss during his career.
- He memorized lines by having his manager read them to him due to his hearing impairment.
- The upcoming KBS 2TV documentary 'Celebrity Soldier's Secret' will explore his life and dedication to acting despite his health challenges.
This report from Chosun Ilbo sheds light on the incredible dedication of veteran South Korean actor Lee Soon-jae, a beloved figure often referred to as a 'national treasure.' While audiences have long admired his consistent performances, this upcoming program reveals the profound personal battles he fought behind the scenes.
It is revealed that Lee Soon-jae has been grappling with significant hearing and vision loss. This is not a recent development but a condition he has managed throughout his acting career. The detail that he relied on his manager to read lines aloud, which he then memorized, speaks volumes about his commitment to his craft, overcoming immense physical obstacles.
The KBS 2TV program 'Celebrity Soldier's Secret' is set to honor Lee Soon-jae's seven-decade-long career. The broadcast will delve into his life, highlighting how sheer determination fueled his passion for acting, allowing him to continue gracing the stage and screen even as he faced these health challenges.
From a South Korean perspective, Lee Soon-jae represents a generation of artists who embodied perseverance and professionalism. His story is not just about acting; it's about resilience and an unwavering spirit that prioritizes artistic expression above personal hardship. This narrative resonates deeply in a culture that highly values dedication and respect for elders and their contributions.
My manager reads the lines to me, and I memorize them by ear.
Originally published by Chosun Ilbo in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.