The beloved South Korean actress Kim Soo-mi tragically passed away on Friday, October 25, at the age of 75 following a heart attack. She was transported to Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital in Seocho-gu around 8 AM KST after suffering a cardiac arrest, but unfortunately, she was declared deceased upon her arrival.
Kim Soo-mi was discovered unconscious on the floor of her residence by her son in Bangbae-dong, Seocho-gu. The circumstances of her passing are still under review. A mortuary for the actress will be established at the funeral hall of Hanyang University Hospital, the same location where she was admitted for her heart-related emergency.
She is survived by her husband, Chung Chang-gyu, her daughter, Chung Ju-ri, her son, Chung Myung-ho, and her daughter-in-law, Seo Hyo-rim, who is also a recognized South Korean actress with notable roles in series such as Beautiful Gong Shim, Scent of a Woman, and Man in the Kitchen.
In her prolific career, Kim Soo-mi left an indelible mark on both film and television, with memorable contributions to projects including Granny’s Got Talent, Marrying the Mafia: Returns, and Mother’s Touch: Korean Side Dishes.
A Tribute to the Legendary Kim Soo-mi
Kim Soo-mi, who was born on September 3, 1949, was a celebrated South Korean actress acknowledged for her artistic influence until her passing on October 25, 2024. She began her acting journey in 1970 after winning a talent contest, gradually building her reputation through a variety of notable performances.
Her significant breakthrough came with County Diaries, a series that highlights the nostalgic yearning for the rural life in South Korea while presenting it in a realistic manner. This show catapulted her into stardom, making her one of the most recognizable actresses of the 1980s.
Following a short hiatus after the show’s conclusion in 2002, she made a triumphant return in 2003 with a guest appearance in the comedy series Oh Happy!, marking an exciting comeback to the entertainment scene.
Kim was often referred to as the “Queen of Ad-Lib,”thanks to her engaging performances in comedy shows like Mapado, Twilight Gangsters, Granny’s Got Talent, and the Marrying the Mafia series. Her portrayal in the 2006 film Barefoot Ki-bong also caught widespread attention, showcasing a serious aspect of her talent.
In addition to her acting contributions, Kim Soo-mi held influential positions within the industry. She headed publicity efforts for the 1999 International Environment Expo and served as the chair of the Theater and Film Department at Soongsil University’s College of Social Sciences from 2003 until her passing in 2024.
Kim Soo-mi’s significant career and her cherished presence in the industry have left many mourning her loss.
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