Actor Lee Joo Seung mourns loss of grandfather, Korean War veteran featured on "I Live Alone"

Actor Lee Joo Seung is mourning the loss of his grandfather.

According to reports, Lee’s grandfather passed away on the 22nd at the age of 97. Born in 1930, the late veteran was recognized as a national merit recipient who served as an officer during the Korean War. After completing his military service, he worked as an elementary school teacher and was widely respected for his dedication, even paying tuition for students from underprivileged families.

Lee is listed as a chief mourner and is currently keeping vigil at the funeral hall alongside his family.

The funeral has been arranged at Konkuk University Medical Center Funeral Hall in Seoul. The funeral procession is scheduled for 9:10 a.m. on the 24th, with burial at Seoul Memorial Park followed by interment at the National Goesan Veterans Cemetery.

The news is especially poignant as Lee previously introduced his grandfather to viewers through MBC’s variety program "I Live Alone" in February 2024. On the show, Lee revealed his close bond with his grandparents, sharing that he visited them up to five times a month.

During the broadcast, Lee was seen buying grape juice and soju to make his grandfather’s special homemade drink, watching UFC matches together, gifting flower pots, and bringing sheet masks to care for his grandfather’s dry skin. The late grandfather also drew attention for his disciplined routine, waking at 2 a.m. for Bible study and going to bed at 8:30 p.m. He impressed viewers with his sharp memory, recalling the exact date he moved into his home and even family members’ military service numbers, while also sharing stories from his time in the Korean War.

Lee once expressed on the show, “When I visit my grandfather’s house, it feels like I return to my childhood,” highlighting the deep affection between them.

Born in 1989, Lee debuted in 2008 with the film 'Dogs in Cheonggyecheon' and later earned recognition in the independent film scene. He has since appeared in various dramas and variety programs, gaining public affection for his warm and sincere personality.