Actor Lee Sang-bo, 45, Found Dead After Overcoming False Drug Accusations

South Korean actor Lee Sang-bo was found dead at his home on March 26, 2026, at the age of 45, leaving fans and colleagues in shock. Police confirmed they were called by his family and are investigating the circumstances surrounding his death. His agency told reporters, “We are currently confirming the situation.”

Lee Sang-bo began his acting career in 2006 with the drama Transparent Human: Chang Jang-su and appeared in several other projects over the years. In 2022, he faced false allegations of drug use linked to medications he was taking for depression.

Tests from the National Forensic Service later confirmed he had not used illegal substances. At the time, Lee opened up about his struggles, sharing on social media, “Drinking alcohol because I couldn’t control my mind even with long-term medication was the start of the incident. With your support, I will overcome this.”

He also spoke openly about personal hardships during a 2022 appearance on The Marching Sisters. Lee shared the tragic loss of his sister in a traffic accident during high school, followed by the deaths of his father in 2010 and his mother later on. These events led him to seek mental health treatment. On the show, hosts encouraged him, saying, “Repay with your acting,” which inspired him to return to work and pursue a fresh start in his career.

After clearing the drug allegations and making a comeback, Lee had signed with a new agency and was preparing for upcoming projects. His sudden death has deepened the grief among fans and the entertainment community. Many hope that Lee, who endured so much pain in his life, can now rest peacefully alongside his family.

His funeral is scheduled to be held at the Central Funeral Hall in Pyeongtaek, Gyeonggi Province, and condolences continue to pour in from fans and colleagues.

Lee Sang-bo’s story highlights the pressures actors face, both personally and publicly. Despite false accusations and tragic losses, he showed remarkable courage in continuing his career. His death is a sobering reminder of the importance of mental health support. What do you think about Lee Sang-bo’s journey and the challenges he faced? Share your thoughts in the comments.