MBC will broadcast a memorial special documentary honoring the late actor Lee Soon-jae titled "Actor Lee Soon-jae, I Owe You Much" on the 28th at 8:40 PM. This documentary was produced in the form of summarizing the late actor's acting career and began filming earlier this year with Lee Soon-jae's permission. However, production was halted due to his rapidly deteriorating health, and it was ultimately aired in a memorial format three days after his passing.

The late Lee Soon-jae was an iconic figure in the Korean acting world, actively working in theater, drama, and film for over 70 years. His filmography includes 175 dramas, 150 films, and over 100 plays. Despite his long career, he won only one acting award. During the filming of the KBS drama "Nonsense" last year, he had almost completely lost his eyesight but concealed this and devoted himself to acting.

This documentary introduces anecdotes about Lee Soon-jae's efforts to continue acting despite losing his vision. It will also reveal for the first time his final moments battling illness in bed since last year. Wearing a patient gown, Lee Soon-jae spoke about acting and his works, never losing hope of returning to the stage.

The narration is provided by actor Lee Seo-jin. Lee Seo-jin formed a connection with the late Lee Soon-jae through the drama "Yi San" and the variety show "Grandpas Over Flowers," expressing deep respect for him. During the recording, he said, "There is something I really want to say to the teacher," moving the production team to tears. This single phrase from Lee Seo-jin is expected to represent the feelings of those mourning the late actor.

MBC has also prepared online content to commemorate the late actor. On the official website, the phrase "Eternal Active Duty" is displayed, and more than 20 dramas featuring the late actor are available for viewing. Lee Soon-jae passed away on the 25th at the age of 91, leaving a profound mark on the history of Korean drama.

Since his debut in the 1956 play "Beyond the Horizon," he contributed to the development of Korean TV dramas through his work with various broadcasters. His representative roles include "Daebal's Father" in the 1991 MBC drama "What Is Love?" and Yoo Ui-tae in the 1999 drama "Heo Jun." He also connected with younger generations through the 2000s sitcom "High Kick" series, establishing himself as an actor spanning generations.

Lee Soon-jae had been resting since stepping down from the play "Waiting for Godot" last year due to health reasons, but his condition worsened, leading to his passing. He appeared before the public last year through the drama "Nonsense" and was recorded as the oldest recipient of the grand prize at the "2024 KBS Drama Awards." At that time, he said on stage, "Having lived a long life, I never thought I would see a day like this. To the viewers, I owe you much and have received a lot of help throughout my life. Thank you," delivering his farewell. This scene became his last official appearance.

MBC's memorial documentary will be an important opportunity to reflect on the acting career of the late Lee Soon-jae and honor the legacy he left behind.