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Squid Game Season One became a TV sensation (Image: Netflix)
Tragedy has struck the world of entertainment as "Squid Game" actress Lee Joo Sil has died at the age of 80. The South Korean star, who graced the screens in the second series of the Netflix sensation, passed away following a prolonged battle with stomach cancer, her agency confirmed on Sunday (February 2).
Lee, who portrayed the character Park Mal Soon, mother to Hwang Jun Ho (Wi Ha Joon) and stepmother to Hwang In Ho (Lee Byung Hun), reportedly died in hospital at 10:20am where she had been under treatment.
The beloved actress had bravely disclosed last year that she had been waging a war against cancer for more than a decade. Speaking to MBN's Special World, she shared her initial diagnosis of stage three breast cancer and her subsequent victory over the illness, only for it to return later.
A funeral is scheduled at Shinchon Severance Hospital in South Korea, with a service planned for February 5.
Fans have taken to social media to express their sorrow and pay homage to Lee Joo Sil. One heartbroken admirer penned: "RIP Lee Joo Sil," reports the Daily Star.
Lee portrayed the character Park Mal Soon in the Netflix show (Image: X)
Another tribute highlighted her memorable role in another series: "Actress Lee Joo Sil who played the role of Somun's grandmother in The Uncanny Counter passes away today. Condolences [flowers emoji]. May she rest in peace [angel emoji]."
Renowned for portraying kindhearted characters, Lee's role in "Squid Game" was no exception. As Park Mal Soon, she depicted a mother who carried the burden of guilt for her troubled bonds with her children.
The actress, who began her career in 1964, is renowned for her voice acting and on-screen performances. She has gained fame through her roles in the Korean TV series The Uncanny Counter and the South Korean horror film Train to Busan.
Squid Game Season 2 ended on a massive cliff-hanger (Image: No Ju-han/Netflix)
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Squid Game's second season has garnered a staggering 126.2 million views since its release on Boxing Day, setting a new record for the most views of a Netflix series within such a period.
A third instalment has now been greenlit by the streaming giant. The final season is due to launch in June 2025 - and with season two ending on a massive cliffhanger - fans will be desperate to find out what happens to the main character, Gi-hun.
Squid Game can be streamed on Netflix.
English (US) ·