Lee Joo-Sil, Round 6 Actress, Dies at 81; Netflix Star Was an Icon of Korean Cinema

South Korean actress Lee Joo-Sil, best known for her role as Park Mal-Soon in the global hit series Round 6, passed away on Sunday, February 2, at the age of 81. The news of her death came as a shock to many fans around the world, particularly those who were captivated by her memorable performance in the Netflix production that became a worldwide phenomenon. Lee Joo-Sil earned her place in television and cinema history not only for her talent but for the dedication and depth with which she portrayed her characters, always bringing a human touch to all her performances.

Lee Joo-Sil’s death marks a significant moment in South Korean entertainment, as she represented one of the last figures from a generation of actors who helped shape the country’s film and television industry. The actress was part of a number of notable productions, with her role in Round 6 standing out as a key moment in her career. She will be remembered not only as a remarkable professional but as a person of great humanity and humility.

Lee Joo-Sil began her career in the late 1960s, and over the years, she built a solid career that made her one of South Korea’s biggest stars. Although her passing was expected due to her age, it brings an end to a career that left a lasting legacy, defined by touching and intense performances. The actress will be remembered, especially for her ability to move audiences and bring sensitivity to every role she took on.

Lee Joo-Sil’s Career: A Journey of Talent and Dedication

Lee Joo-Sil’s career spanned more than 50 years. She started in the 1960s, at a time when South Korea’s film industry was still developing into the global powerhouse it is today. Throughout her career, she tackled a variety of genres, including drama, comedy, and even historical films. Her ability to adapt to different types of characters made her one of the most versatile actresses of her generation.

In the 1970s and 1980s, Lee Joo-Sil was already recognized as a talented actress. She starred in a number of successful dramas and films that became landmarks in South Korean cinema. However, it was the series Round 6 that truly put her on the international map. Released in 2021, the show became a global sensation, breaking viewership records and becoming Netflix’s biggest success in its category. In the series, Lee Joo-Sil portrayed Park Mal-Soon, an elderly woman who, alongside other participants, finds herself caught in a deadly game with the promise of a massive financial reward. Despite her age and apparent fragility, her character revealed remarkable inner strength, and her performance was widely praised.

Her role in Round 6 was not Lee Joo-Sil’s first major role in large-scale productions, but it was certainly the one that brought her international fame. The actress had already earned accolades over the years, but it was the success of the series that brought her career to a global level. Lee Joo-Sil’s ability to bring complex, multilayered characters to life made her a fan favorite, and her portrayal of Park Mal-Soon in particular was praised for its emotional depth.

The Impact of Round 6 on Lee Joo-Sil’s Career

Although Lee Joo-Sil had a long and respected career in South Korea, it was Round 6 that elevated her visibility to new heights. The series, which blends psychological suspense with deep social commentary, became a worldwide phenomenon, reaching not only Asian audiences but viewers from across the globe. Lee Joo-Sil’s portrayal of Park Mal-Soon, an elderly woman seeking a chance to change her life through a deadly game, charmed and moved a large fanbase, especially for her sensitive and nuanced performance.

Her character, despite not being the youngest or most physically imposing, brought an inner strength that made her one of the fan favorites in the show. The actress, already a household name in South Korea, saw her career skyrocket with the success of Round 6. Her performance was celebrated for its authenticity and her ability to humanize a character that, in another context, might have been seen merely as a victim in a violent game. Instead, Lee Joo-Sil brought dignity and resilience to the role, making her even more admired.

The impact of Round 6 on Lee Joo-Sil’s career was immense. Over the years, she had been awarded numerous honors for her acting, but the success of the series brought her to global prominence. The production itself was a landmark for South Korean entertainment, which once again found itself in the global spotlight, with Round 6 achieving record-breaking viewership on platforms like Netflix.

Lee Joo-Sil’s Legacy and Reactions to Her Passing

Lee Joo-Sil’s death is a moment of reflection for many in the entertainment industry, particularly those who worked alongside her over the years. Her colleagues, especially those who acted alongside her in Round 6, expressed profound sadness over the loss of a beloved co-worker. The production of the series, which featured many veteran actors, deeply felt the absence of the actress, who was always seen as a respectful and generous presence on set.

On social media and in South Korean news outlets, Lee Joo-Sil’s death prompted an outpouring of tributes from both fans and colleagues. Many praised the actress’s empathy and dedication to her craft, noting that despite her fame, she remained humble and approachable. International fans, who came to know her primarily through her role in Round 6, also joined in mourning, remembering the importance of her contribution to global culture.

Lee Joo-Sil’s legacy, however, extends far beyond her roles in films and TV series. She represented a generation of actresses who, over time, helped redefine South Korean entertainment. Her work, both on and off-screen, made her a respected figure in her profession, someone who, even after decades of acting, continued to be remembered and admired for her authenticity and commitment to her work.

Fun Facts About Lee Joo-Sil and Her Career

• Career Start: Lee Joo-Sil began her artistic career at a young age, in the late 1960s, and was one of the pioneering figures in the South Korean film and television industry.
• Awards and Recognition: Throughout her career, Lee Joo-Sil won numerous awards for her acting, recognized for both her technical skill and the emotional sensitivity she brought to her characters. She was a regular presence at South Korean film awards.
• Notable Roles: Although her most iconic role was in Round 6, Lee Joo-Sil also starred in many other productions in film and television, including dramas and comedies that became classic hits on South Korean TV.
• Films and TV Shows: The actress appeared in dozens of films and TV shows throughout her career, building a dedicated fanbase in South Korea and more recently on the global stage.

Timeline of Lee Joo-Sil’s Career

• 1960-1970: Beginning of her career as an actress, in a period of transformation for South Korea’s film industry.
• 1980-1990: Consolidation as one of South Korea’s top TV and film actresses.
• 2000-2010: Starred in popular dramas and films, maintaining her relevance in the industry.
• 2021: Iconic role in Round 6, bringing her global recognition.
• February 2, 2025: Lee Joo-Sil passes away at 81.

Key Facts About Lee Joo-Sil

• Age at death: 81 years.
• Most prominent genres: Drama, comedy, and suspense.
• Most famous character: Park Mal-Soon from Round 6.
• Career: Over 50 years of acting in TV and film.
• Recognition: Multiple awards for her contribution to South Korean entertainment.