The South Korean series has been a global phenomenon with acclaim from critics and viewers alike. It tells the story of a deadly contest where a group of people puts their life at stake while playing children’s games for a life-changing prize. The series was created, written, and directed by Hwang Dong-hyuk. It has received a tremendous number of accolades, winning six Primetime Emmy Awards and one Golden Globe. Lee Joo-sil, the South Korean actress famed for her role as Park Mal-soon in Squid Game, has passed away at 81 after a brief battle with stomach cancer.
Sadly, Squid Game’s fandom is in mourning for one of its stars. Lee Joo-Sil, who played Park Mal Soon, mother of Hwang Jun Ho (Wi Ha Joon) and stepmother of Hwang In Ho (Lee Byung Hun), passed away at 81 years on February 2 at her family home in Uijeongbu. The actress suffered a cardiac arrest after battling stomach cancer.
Lee’s career was one that extended for decades, commencing in the 1960s with stage productions and voice-overs, before starting to bag multiple roles in K-dramas. Besides Squid Game, she starred in the 2016 blockbuster Train to Busan as Mrs. Woo and had a recurring role in The Uncanny Counter.
Lee was in her fifties when she was diagnosed with stage three breast cancer but beat the odds and was declared cancer-free thirteen years later. Her death came after yet another battle of stomach cancer, which is one of the most common cancers worldwide.
Fans are now mourning her death on social media. One wrote, “May she rest in peace,” another said, “Very sad.” A third fan recalled, “Known for her role in Squid Game and decades of iconic performances, she leaves behind a lasting legacy.”
Lee’s third season appearance in the highly-awaited Squid Game now remains doubtful. It is scheduled for June 27, 2025.
“She was such a phenomenal actress. Rest in peace,” a fan stated.
