South Korean actor Lee Sang-Bo found dead at his home; 44-year-old dies after being cleared of drug charges

Lee Sang-Bo

South Korean actor Lee Sang-Bo was found dead at his residence in Pyeongtaek recently. The news of his demise comes roughly four years after the actor was cleared in a widely reported and controversial drug-related case in 2022. Lee was reportedly 44 at the time of his death.

Lee Sang-Bo dies

According to local authorities, Lee Sang-Bo's body was discovered by a family member at around 12:40 pm KST on Thursday, March 27, 2026. The police officials from Pyeongtaek in Gyeonggi Province confirmed that they witnessed no signs of foul play. An investigation is currently underway to determine the exact cause of death.

Funeral arrangements have been made for 10:30 am on March 29. The South Korean actor's last rites will be carried out at Jungang Funeral Home, Room 3, in Pyeongtaek.

After the news of his death surfaced, his agency, Korea Management Group (KMG), confirmed the news via a statement, as per Gulf News. The statement read, "Hello, this is KMG. We regret to inform you of the passing of our actor Lee Sang Bo. At the request of his family, we are unable to disclose the cause of death. His wake is being held at Room 3 of the Pyeongtaek Central Funeral Home."

It further added, "For the privacy and protection of his family, we kindly ask that the media and public refrain from coverage and visits, and we appreciate your understanding and cooperation. Thank you."

Lee Sang-Bo drugs case

Lee's death comes roughly four years after the infamous 2022 drug case that once put his career under scrutiny. At the time, the actor was investigated over alleged use of drugs after he was seen behaving unsteadily in public. The incident drew public attention quickly and led to his brief detention. However, the authorities later found no evidence of illegal substances on him. Additionally, the tests conducted by the National Forensic Service also confirmed that there were no drugs in his system.

Subsequently, it was clarified that his condition was linked to prescribed medication instead, which included antidepressants and tranquillisers, which the actor had been taking following a personal loss. TAs a result, the case was formally closed, clearing him of all allegations.