Actor Kim Joo-young, known for historical dramas, dies at 73
The late actor Kim Joo-young / Courtesy of Korean Film Archive
Actor Kim Joo-young, remembered for his powerful performances in historical dramas including “Tears of the Dragon” (1996-98) and “Jeong Do-jeon” (2014), died of pneumonia on Sept. 30. He was 73.
A graduate of Chung-Ang University’s theater and film department, Kim debuted in 1974 as part of MBC’s sixth open recruitment class and passed TBC’s 15th open audition.
He first gained attention for his villainous roles in MBC’s long-running series "Chief Inspector" and secured his first leading role in the 1985 drama "Cutting the Moonlight."
Over the years, he became a familiar face in historical dramas, portraying generals and high-ranking officials known for their fiery tempers. His credits include KBS’ “Empress Myeongseong” (2001–02), “Dae Jo-yeong” (2006–07) and “The Great King Sejong” (2008). He also appeared in modern series such as KBS’ “I’m Glad I Loved You” (2010–11) and SBS’ “New Tales of Gisaeng” (2011).
Kim largely stepped away from acting after the historical drama “Jeong Do-jeon.” In a television appearance later in life, he revealed he had become a shaman but expressed his enduring passion for the craft, saying, “I want to keep acting until the day I die.”
This article from the Hankook Ilbo, the sister publication of The Korea Times, is translated by generative AI and edited by The Korea Times.