On May 27, South Korean media reported the passing of veteran actor Choi Jung-woo at the age of 68. Known for his nearly 50-year-long career in film, television, and theater, Choi Jung-woo left behind a legacy as one of Korea’s most respected middle-aged actors.
A Model Actor of His Generation
Choi Jung-woo made his acting debut in 1975 with the play The Life of an Actor and later worked as a voice actor for Tongyang Broadcasting Company (TBC) starting in 1980. During the 1980s, he earned the nickname “Prince of the Stage” due to his commanding theatrical presence.
In the 1990s, Choi Jung-woo paused his acting career to study film in the United States, returning in the 2000s to star in dozens of acclaimed movies. His notable film credits include Two Cops, Indian Summer, Another Public Enemy 2, The Secret Reunion, The Witch, Operation: Secret, and The Moon. He was frequently cast in authoritative roles such as company presidents, prosecutors, police officers, and senior intelligence officials.
One of his most memorable roles was the seasoned doctor Jang Gyu-tae in the 2010 series Quiz of God, where his portrayal left a deep impression. On television, Choi Jung-woo appeared in over 70 dramas including Hero Chil Woo, Painter of the Wind, Shining Inheritance, Quiz of God, Deep Rooted Tree, Chief of Staff 2, City Hunter, Doctor Stranger, and The Legend of the Blue Sea.
Choi Jung-woo was also a favorite actor of director Jin Hyuk, collaborating on eight projects across SBS and JTBC networks. Beyond acting, he appeared in music videos such as Hong Jin Young’s Living Like This and was a regular presence at major award ceremonies. He earned prestigious awards like the Best Acting Award at the Seoul Theater Festival (1990) and the Dong-A Arts Award for Best Actor (1999).
Choi Jung-woo’s steady and enduring career has been praised by Korean media as an ideal role model for middle-aged actors. His final roles included Park Joon Ki in The Tale of Lady Ok (2025), where he played a suspicious character toward the female lead.
Personal Life: Three Marriages and Heartbreak
Choi Jung-woo’s private life remained largely private until October 2023, when he opened up on MBN’s Dongchimi about his three marriages. He had kept this part of his life hidden to avoid judgment.
He revealed that his first marriage happened hastily at age 30, though he was not fully committed. After their divorce, he starred in the play Turn off the Lights, which brought him financial success.
His second marriage was to a woman he met on a TV show. She already had a child from a previous relationship and lived in the United States. Due to the distance and her diabetes diagnosis — which she blamed on him — their marriage ended quickly and amicably without arguments.
Choi Jung-woo’s third and final marriage was to a younger Japanese-Korean woman, 11 years his junior, who had never been married. They dated for four years before marrying. He described her as perfectionistic and emotionally difficult to manage due to ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder). When angry, she reportedly called him an “old man.”
Tributes from Colleagues and Fans
Following his passing, many colleagues and production teams expressed deep sorrow. A director recalled, “He quietly completed his roles with great professionalism and always showed care for younger actors on set.”
Fans also paid tribute on social media with messages such as “A great talent lost, truly heartbreaking,” and “Thank you for 50 years of relentless dedication.”
Choi Jung-woo’s last projects were The Tale of Lady Ok (JTBC) and Suspicious Her (KBS2). His enduring contributions to Korean entertainment continue to be celebrated by industry insiders and audiences alike.
