Archive · 30 Aug 2026
South Korean Actor Lee Yong Joo Dies at 44
Lee Yong Joo was a South Korean actor who died at age 44.
He was known for making people laugh in several television shows.
His most famous role was as an awkward new recruit in The Blue Tower.
Reports say he died suddenly on August 29 after cardiac arrest.
A close friend shared the news online.
Fans and colleagues posted messages remembering his warmth and talent.
Lee had previously said he had a heart condition called hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.
However, no one has confirmed that this past condition caused his death.
South Korean actor Lee Yong Joo reportedly died suddenly at age 44.
Korean media reported that he died on August 29 after suffering cardiac arrest.
Lee was known for roles in The Blue Tower, Rude Miss Young Ae and Princess Hours.
A source close to Lee announced his death on social media and asked acquaintances to help spread the news.
Lee had previously disclosed that hypertrophic cardiomyopathy led to his military-service exemption, but no direct link to his death has been confirmed.
- Who
- South Korean actor Lee Yong Joo.
- What
- He reportedly died suddenly at age 44 after suffering cardiac arrest.
- When
- August 29; the articles do not specify the year.
- Where
- The articles report the death in connection with South Korea but do not specify where it occurred.
- Why
- Korean media reported cardiac arrest as the cause of death; no direct link to his previously disclosed cardiomyopathy has been confirmed.
- Age
- 44
- Reported date of death
- August 29
- Reported cause
- Cardiac arrest
- Known for
- The Blue Tower, Rude Miss Young Ae and Princess Hours
- Career
- He began as a fashion model before becoming an actor.
- Military exemption
- He said hypertrophic cardiomyopathy led to his exemption from military service.
- Tributes
- Fans and acquaintances shared emotional messages on social media.