Korean actor, 44, found dead at home, had made comeback after drug allegations, depression & family losses

South Korean actor Lee Sang Bo was found dead at his home, according to reports from Soompi.

A funeral will be held on Mar. 29, 2026.

The actor made his debut in 2006, and starred in a host of productions like "Miss Monte Cristo", "Wicked Love" and "The Era of Daughters-in-Law".

According to Chosun, his career faced some headwinds in the form of drug use allegations in 2022 due to prescribed medication. However he cleared his name after analysis by the National Forensic Service.

He also had to cope with consecutive family losses and struggles with depression.

Lee however pushed through, even signing an exclusive contract with Korea Management Group last year.

He had said that he wished to "prepare my acting to the point where I can overturn that incident (drug allegations) and show it to people".

Chosun reported that the cause of death was not disclosed at the request of the family. The police are investigating the exact circumstances.

They reported that many mourned his sudden departure, and expressed admiration at his "determination to rise again through acting despite numerous trials".

Helplines

If you or someone you know is in mental distress, here are some hotlines you can call to seek help, advice, or just a listening ear:

National mindline.sg Hotline: 1771 (24 hours)

National mindline.sg WhatsApp: 66691771 (24 hours)

SOS 24-hour Hotline: 1-767

Singapore Association for Mental Health: 1800-283-7019

Centre for Domestic Employees: 1800 225 5233 (24 hours)

Foreign Domestic Worker Association for Social Support and Training: 1800 339 4357 (24 hours)

HOME: 1800 797 7977 or +65 9787 3122 (WhatsApp / Viber / SMS)

Image from Instagram and via Chosun