Song Jae-Rim: 5 Things to Know About the Korean Actor Who Died

Song Jae-rim died at just 39 years old in November 2024. Known for his roles in K-dramas, the late actor’s death broke fans’ hearts around the world. Many shared emotional tributes for Jae-rim, remembering him for his lovable film and television performances as well as his modeling days.

Hollywood Life has compiled five facts about Jae-rim in honor of his life and career.

Song Jae-Rim Started Acting in 2009

Jae-rim’s first on-screen credit was in the 2009 film Actresses, playing a photographer’s assistant. The following year, he appeared in Grand Prix as the character Lee. Over the next several years, Jae-rim landed various film and television roles.

He Was Also a Model

Before he caught the acting bug, Jae-rim modeled for various magazines in South Korea, including Vogue Girl Korea, Nylon Korea, GQ Korea, Arena Homme + Korea and Esquire Korea.

(Photo by The Chosunilbo JNS/Imazins via Getty Images)

Jae-Rim Rose to Fame Through K-Dramas

After landing his breakout role in the 2012 series Moon Embracing the Sun, Jae-rim later appeared in Our Gap-soon, Clean with Passion for Now and My Military Valentine — just to name a few.

Thanks to his steady rise to fame, Jae-rim earned a handful of awards, including at the 2014 MBC Entertainment Awards and the 2016 SBS Drama Awards. At the MBC Awards, the actor was recognized for his performance in We Got Married as Best Male Newcomer. At the 2016 awards, Jae-rim won the Special Acting Award, Actor in a Serial Drama award for his performance in Our Gap-soon.

He Reportedly Studied Engineering in College

Jae-rim was originally from Seoul, South Korea, and he lived there for most of his life. According to various outlets, the actor attended Chung-Ang University in Seoul, where he reportedly studied electrical engineering.

Jae-rim Died When He Was 39

At just 39 years old, Jae-rim was found dead at his Seoul, South Korea, home in November 2024. His cause of death was not initially determined. However, local police reported to multiple outlets that no “evidence of foul play” was suspected.