Anchor: Veteran South Korean actor Lee Soon-jae passed away on Tuesday morning at the age of 91. He was widely regarded as a legend in his field, with a career spanning more than 140 works across television, as well as additional work in theater and film. The South Korean entertainment industry and fans across the country are now mourning his death.
Rosyn Park has more.

Report: Veteran actor and former lawmaker Lee Soon-jae died Tuesday at the age of 91.

His agency said he died of pneumonia at around 2 a.m.

Lee was born in 1934 in Hoeryong, North Hamgyong Province, in present-day North Korea, and graduated from Seoul National University with a degree in philosophy.

He made his stage debut in 1956 in the play "Beyond the Horizon" and went on to become South Korea’s longest-serving active actor, working across television, film and theater for nearly seven decades.

Lee led the heyday of historical TV dramas in the 1970s and 80s, starting with KBS's first drama in 1961.

Last year, he starred in the KBS drama "Dog Knows Everything" and received the grand prize at the KBS Drama Awards in January for his role in the comedy series.

[Sound bite: Actor Lee Soon-jae, KBS Drama Awards in Jan. (Korean-English)]
"This award isn't mine alone. To all our viewers, I owe you so much. I am indebted to your support for a lifetime. Thank you." 

Lee was performing on stage in "Waiting for Godot" until October of last year,  but was forced to step away from the production early due to health issues.

Lee also served as president of the Korea Broadcasting Actors Association three times and nurtured younger actors as a chair professor in the acting arts department at Gachon University.

A memorial altar has been set up for the late beloved actor at Asan Medical Center in Seoul, and his funeral will take place on Thursday.
Rosyn Park, KBS World Radio News.