Lee Sun-kyun dies by suicide, drug scandal sweeps entertainment scene [REWIND 2023]

In the latest development of Korea's biggest drug scandal that swept through the local entertainment scene this year, actor Lee Sun-kyun reportedly died by suicide in Jongno District, central Seoul, on Wednesday. He was 48 years old.

Actor Lee Sun-kyun arrives at an office of the Incheon Metropolitan Police Agency in Incheon on Dec. 23 for the third round of questioning on suspicions of drug use. [NEWS1]

In the latest development of Korea's biggest drug scandal that swept through the local entertainment scene this year, actor Lee Sun-kyun reportedly died by suicide in Jongno District, central Seoul, on Wednesday. He was 48 years old.

Lee had been undergoing police questioning on suspicions of drug use, based on a detailed testimony from a woman who claimed that he took illegal drugs with her at her house. He initially denied the allegations, and drug tests of his body hair came back negative.

Lee was best known for his role in the 2020 Oscar-winning film "Parasite."

Separately, actor Yoo Ah-in was indicted without detention on Oct. 19 over his alleged use of seven different types of drugs, including marijuana, propofol, ketamine and cocaine.

The first hearing was held on Dec. 12, during which Yoo's attorney admitted that he had smoked marijuana but denied most other allegations of illegal drug use. The second hearing will take place on Jan. 23.

Meanwhile, singer G-Dragon of boy band Big Bang was cleared of all related charges on Dec. 18, and he said that he will establish a foundation to combat drug addiction next year, named JusPeace.

REWIND 2023

In 2023, Korea witnessed a tumultuous year in its entertainment and culture scenes. A drug scandal sent shock waves through the industry, ensnaring luminaries like Yoo Ah-in, G-Dragon and Lee Sun-kyun, with Lee reportedly dying by suicide at the age of 48 on Wednesday. BTS members one by one reported for duty to fulfill their looming military service, and Blackpink decided to stand united as a quartet with YG. The K-pop market grappled with alleged tampering scandals, involving artists Fifty Fifty, EXO, Omega X and soloists like Chuu. K-dramas continued their global reign, with "Moving" on Disney+ and "The Glory" on Netflix ranking among the most viewed shows worldwide. Korean literature earned accolades, with the international recognition of Cheon Myeong-kwan and Han Kang's works. Historic cultural landmarks and treasures also made the news, from vandalized Gyeongbok Palace walls to Jikji's exhibition and Gucci's fashion show in Gyeongbok Palace. Only two Korean films were able to make the 10 million ticket sales mark. Here are the top 10 culture stories in 2023:

1. Lee Sun-kyun dies by suicide, drug scandal sweeps entertainment scene

2. Bye for now, BTS says

3. Blackpink 'fourever'

4. Cupid's roller coaster ride

5. Streaming services up the ante with hit shows

6. Scribbling on the royal palace walls

7. Fiction books find global acclaim

8. Jikji sees spotlight after half a century in hiding

9. Luxury brands secure their spot in Korea

10. Two films in the 10 million club

BY YOON SO-YEON [yoon.soyeon@joongang.co.kr]