Korean Actor Lee Sang-bo Dies at 44

South Korean actor Lee Sang-bo has been found dead at his home. He was 44.

In a statement, Korea Management Group (KMG), the actor's agency, said he was found dead on Thursday, opting not to disclose the cause of death and asking for the family’s privacy.

“We ask for your understanding that it is difficult to disclose the cause of death at the request of the bereaved family,” it said. “To protect the family, we respectfully decline interviews and visits, and ask for your cooperation.”

Multiple South Korean media outlets reported authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding Lee’s death, with no immediate signs of foul play.

Lee began his acting career in 2006 with the KBS drama “Invisible Man Choi Jang Soo.”

He worked primarily in supporting roles across South Korean television and film.

Lee rose to fame through appearances in popular dramas, including “Private Lives” and “Miss Monte-Cristo.” 

His other roles include “Rugal,” “Secretly Greatly,” and “Bad Love.” He was last seen in the series “Elegant Empire.”

The actor’s death comes after a career spanning nearly two decades in the industry.

In 2022, he made headlines after he was briefly detained on suspicion of drug use. 

Lee was released without indictment after the police reviewed medical records,  confirming he had been taking prescribed medication for mental health reasons.