Actor Lee Yongjoo has died at the age of 44 after suffering a heart attack. The star was best known for his roles in the 2013 drama series Blue Tower and the 2006 show Princess Hours. He also appeared in the historical film Doma Ahn Jung-geun.
Sudden Passing Announced
The former model died on August 29, according to Chosun Daily. A friend confirmed the news on social media, saying: "We regretfully inform you that our friend Lee Yong-joo has passed away suddenly... We ask for your warm condolences as he begins his final journey."
Another friend wrote: "My friend Lee Yong-joo has passed away suddenly," adding: "I still cannot believe this sudden news. Please remember Yong-joo's final journey with many others, and pray for his soul with warm hearts."
Tributes From Colleagues
Tributes have poured in from friends and colleagues, including his Blue Tower co-star Baek Bong-gi, who wrote on Instagram: "I regret not calling you more often and not seeing you more often. I'm sorry, brother."
Comedian Kim Jae-woo also said: "I can still vividly picture him walking toward me from far away on set with a big grin on his face. Yong-joo was a good person who sincerely worried about his colleagues, and he was the most passionate actor of all." He added: "Today, with a heavy heart and deep sadness, I saw Yong-joo off on his final journey."
Health History Revealed
Lee had shared in a 2013 interview about tvN's The Blue Tower that he had been exempted from military duty after being diagnosed with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy during his physical examination. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is a genetic heart condition where the heart muscle becomes abnormally thick, making it harder for the heart to pump blood effectively.
He said: "The hospital said there was a high chance it could be inherited, so my sister and I were tested. I was the only one who had the same condition as my mother." He also spoke about his health issues earlier this year, saying on actor Lee Jonghyuk's YouTube channel: "I have some issues with my heart." At the time of his death, he was running a one-person travel agency in Moran, Seongnam.
