South Korean Actor Lee Sang-Bo Passes Away at 44, Investigation Underway

South Korean Actor Lee Sang-Bo breathed his last at Pyeongtaek Home. The 44-year-old star actor passed away years after being cleared in the reported drug-related case. As stated by the local authorities, the star’s body was discovered by a family member at around 12:40 pm KST on Thursday. However, police from Pyeongtaek in Gyeonggi Province confirmed that there are no signs of foul play. Though an investigation is underway to determine the exact cause of death.

Born in 1981, Lee Sang-Bo kickstarted his acting career in 2006 with the KBS2 drama Invisible Man Choi Jang Su. For roughly a decade, he performed under the stage name Lee Bo Hyun. His unexpected passing has caused a wave of shock in the film community, with tributes and condolences flooding in.

South Korean Actor Lee Sang-Bo Breathes Last at 44

South Korean actor Lee Sang-bo, known for his roles in The Elegant Empire and Private Lives, has passed away at age 44 following a career of personal and professional challenges. pic.twitter.com/tEUrjLtG8V — Azat TV (@azattelevision) March 27, 2026

Lee Sang-Bo’s agency, Korea Management Group (KMG), issued an official statement requesting privacy. It read, “Hello, this is KMG. We regret to inform you of the passing of our actor Lee Sang Bo. At the request of his family, we are unable to disclose the cause of death. His wake is being held at Room 3 of the Pyeongtaek Central Funeral Home. For the privacy and protection of his family, we kindly ask that the media and public refrain from coverage and visits, and we appreciate your understanding and cooperation. Thank you.” Funeral arrangements have been set for 10:30 am on March 29 at Jungang Funeral Home, Room 3, in Pyeongtaek.

Lee Sang-Bo’s sad demise has brought the 2022 case to the surface, which once put his career under scrutiny. At the time, he was investigated over alleged drug use after being seen behaving unsteadily in public. However, after the tests were conducted by the National Forensic Services, it was confirmed that there were no drugs in his system. The incident quickly drew attention and led to his brief detention. His sudden demise has shaken the film industry, while the actual cause of death is still not revealed.