SEOUL, Aug 30 — South Korean actor and former model Lee Yong‑joo, best known for his comedic turn as a hapless rookie soldier in tvN’s hit series Blue Tower, has died of cardiac arrest, according to a report by OSEN. He was 40.
According to The Chosun Daily, a close friend announced the news on social media on Aug 29, writing, “We regretfully inform you that our friend Lee Yong-joo has passed away suddenly… We ask for your warm condolences as he begins his final journey.”
Lee’s funeral is being held at Bundang Jesaeng Hospital Funeral Hall, with the departure ceremony scheduled for August 31. He will be laid to rest at the Seongnam City Funeral Culture Centre.
The sudden death has drawn renewed attention to Lee’s previously disclosed health issues. In February, he appeared on actor Lee Jong‑hyuk’s YouTube channel and revealed he had been exempted from military service due to a heart condition, later identified as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. “I have some issues with my heart,” he said at the time.
Despite being unfit for enlistment, Lee’s portrayal of a bumbling conscript in Blue Tower became one of his most memorable roles, earning him a loyal fanbase.
Lee also spoke earlier this year about trying to rebuild his life after a failed business venture in Busan. He had since returned to Seoul and was running a small travel agency near Moran Market in Seongnam. “I’m running a one-person travel agency,” he said, expressing determination to start over.
Debuting in the 2004 film Ahn Jung‑geun, Lee went on to appear in several notable dramas, including MBC’s Hello, Francesca, Palace, and tvN’s Uncontrollably Fond. But it was Blue Tower that cemented his reputation, with viewers fondly remembering his distinctive comedic charm.
Colleagues and fans are mourning the loss of an actor who, despite personal struggles, had been striving to rebuild his career and life.
His Blue Tower co-star Baek Bong-gi posted a tribute to Lee on Instagram, sharing his regrets that he had not spent more time with him.
“I regret not calling you more often and not seeing you more often. I’m sorry, brother,” he wrote.
