1. A heartfelt confession: “I’ve never thought of quitting acting”
Actor Song Young-kyu once spoke candidly about his unwavering dedication to acting during his appearance on MBC Every1’s variety show “The Tteokbokki Brothers” on April 12, 2022.
“I’ve never wanted to quit acting, not even once. In the past, some directors treated us like tools, not humans. Even though I had some experience in musicals and theater, I felt hurt when treated that way. But I never thought of quitting. I told myself, ‘This too shall pass. I just have to overcome it—it’s all part of the process.’”
His words reflect a deep love for the craft, despite the hardships he faced throughout his career.
2. Actor Song Young-kyu found deceased at age 55; police rule out foul play
On August 4, according to Gyeonggi Yongin Dongbu Police Station, Song Young-kyu was found dead that morning at a location in Yongin City. A concerned acquaintance discovered him and alerted the authorities. Police confirmed his death at the scene and stated, “There is no suspicion of foul play.”
3. Recent struggles: DUI investigation and financial difficulties
Prior to his passing, Song had been under investigation for driving under the influence. On June 19, he allegedly drove approximately 5 kilometers from Giheung-gu to Cheoin-gu in Yongin City while intoxicated. His blood alcohol concentration reportedly exceeded the license revocation level of 0.08%.
At the time, he was appearing in the ENA drama “I Shopping” and the stage play “Shakespeare in Love”, with another drama, SBS’s “Try: We Become Miracles”, scheduled for release. After the DUI became public, he withdrew from the play. The production teams of the two dramas stated that filming had already been completed and they would minimize his screen time.
It was also reported that Song had been facing financial difficulties prior to the incident. He worked as an actor while his wife ran a café, but they had been struggling due to the downturn in the economy.
4. A 30-year career across stage and screen
Song Young-kyu made his debut in 1994 with the children’s musical “Murettal Master”. Since then, he appeared in numerous theater productions, musicals, films, and dramas. He gained widespread recognition for his role as Chief Choi in the 2019 box-office hit “Extreme Job”, where he played a rival detective to Ryu Seung-ryong’s character.
He also played various roles in dramas such as “Merry Daegu Workshop Battle” (2007), “The Lady in Dignity” (2017), “Temperature of Love” (2017), “Stove League” (2019), “Tale of the Nine Tailed” (2020), “Casino” (2022), and “The Story of Madam Ok” (2024), portraying characters ranging from plastic surgeons and baseball team managers to drama directors.
His filmography also includes “Baseball Girl” (2020), “Air Murder” (2022), “Nation of Happiness” (2024), along with stage performances in “Seagull” (2013) and the musical “200 Pounds Beauty” (2011).
5. A life dedicated to acting, remembered beyond the spotlight
Song Young-kyu remained sincere in his love for acting until the very end. His sudden passing has brought sorrow to fans and colleagues alike. Though he has left the stage, the legacy of his resilient and heartfelt performances will continue to be remembered.
