Police confirm that the 'Moon Embracing the Sun' actor was found dead at his apartment in Seongdong-gu, Seoul on Tuesday, November 12, but the cause of death is yet to be announced.
- November 13, 2024
AceShowbiz - Korean actor Song Jae Rim has passed away at the age of 39. The actor, who began his career as a runway model, was found dead at his apartment in Seongdong District, Seoul at around 12:30 KST, police confirmed.
According to reports, "the police found a suicide note on two pages of A4 paper at the scene." Nicotine concentrate was also reportedly found at the scene. While the exact cause of his passing has not been confirmed, a police official stated, "At this point in the investigation, there are no signs of foul play."
The funeral will be held at St. Mary's Funeral Hall in Yeouido on Thursday, November 14 at 12 P.M. KST, and the burial site will be the Seoul City Crematorium. His sudden passing has sent shock waves across the industry.
TV star Hong Seok Cheon paid tribute on Instagram, "I'm heartbroken that I won't be able to see your wonderful smile again... It's devastating to have to let you go without even a proper goodbye, without taking better care of you... I'm sorry, so sorry... I was such a lousy older brother. Rest in peace."
Actor Park Ho San wrote, "I', going crazy, really. Jae Rim... You were always so bright... I can't believe this... I'm sorry, I didn't reach out, I didn't take care of you. I'm truly sorry." Actress Lee Yoon Ji, Jae Rim's co-star in 2022's "Hello", also mourned his death, "If only you hadn't... I remember your innocence, so I hope you can live freely and fully over there."
Actress Yoo Sun expressed her grief via her Instagram Story, where she stated, "Jae Rim... It's so heartbreaking and painful... I hope you find peace and rest." Kim Min Kyo added, "Jae Rim... Just a month ago, you were telling me with such a bright voice that you were performing... why... why... I'm laying another star to rest in my heart... I will remember you forever."
Before starting his acting career, Jae Rim modeled for the Seoul collections of Juun. J, Herin Homme and Ha Sang Beg. He also appeared in the magazines Bazaar Korea, Vogue Girl Korea, Dazed Korea, Nylon Korea, GQ Korea, Arena Homme + Korea, Esquire Korea and Marie Claire Korea.
Jae Rim began acting in 2009, best known for his role as a loyal bodyguard on the period drama Moon Embracing the Sun (2012). He later starred in "Two Weeks" (2013) and shot to fame after appearing on reality show "We Got Married" with Kim So Eun.
Jae Rim's last Instagram post was in January, when he shared two selfies. In the weeks leading up to his death, his account's name was changed to "Starting a Long Journey," with a recent post hidden and comments restricted.
His most recent credits included TV series "My Military Valentine" and "Queen Woo", which were released earlier this year. He also had roles in upcoming films "Get Rich" and "Salmon", which have not received release dates.