He was the toast of his country. Song Jae-lim, one of South Korea’s most famous actors, was found dead in his Seoul apartment on Tuesday November 12. Aged just 39, he was discovered lifeless by one of his friends, who was due to have lunch with him on the same day. On the spot, a letter found near his body suggests suicide.

Seoul police official Seongdonc told CNN : “ Our initial investigation has so far revealed no signs of criminal activity. “.” As the family has not requested an autopsy, we will proceed with the transfer of the deceased to his family. “ concluded the police, before adding that they would investigate the cause of death following the usual procedures. According to Variety A small funeral will be held in the privacy of the family.

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Mental health at risk

Born in 1985, Song Jae-lim began his career in entertainment in 2009 with the film Actresses. He played a royal guard in the 2012 historical drama Moon Embracing the Sun, and gained even greater fame thanks to his appearance on the reality show We Got Married. Her last performance was in the musical The Rose of Versailleswhich ended in October.

On social networks, South Korean stars paid tribute to Song Jae-lim following the news of his death. “ You used to be such a happy guy… I just can’t believe it. I’m so sorry I didn’t contact you enough, and I’m so sorry I didn’t take care of you enough… “actor Park Ho-san wrote on Instagram. In another post, actor Hong Seok-cheon said: “ I’m sad I won’t be able to see your wonderful smile again… I’m really sorry, rest in peace. “

The recurrent deaths of K-pop and K-drama stars highlight persistent concerns about the mental health and pressures in South Korea’s entertainment industry. Last April, singer Park Boram and singer Moon Bin, a member of boy band ASTRO, died within days of each other. Entertainment agencies have since put in place several mental health support systems, including counseling services and more flexible working hours.