Veteran South Korean actor Choi Bool Am, widely remembered for his iconic roles in some of the country’s longest-running television dramas, has passed away at the age of 87.
His death was confirmed on October 30, following several months of medical treatment.
According to Zero Camp, the non-profit organisation of which Choi served as chairman, the actor passed away at approximately 10:30 p.m. KST on October 29 while receiving treatment at a hospital in Seoul.
His health had reportedly deteriorated following surgery for a herniated disc in March 2025, and he had been concentrating on medical care over the past several months.
Choi’s passing marks the end of a career spanning more than six decades across television, film and theatre.
Known affectionately for portraying dependable fathers and principled characters, he became a familiar presence in Korean households and earned a lasting place in the country’s entertainment history.
Choi Bool Am Remembered for ‘Chief Inspector’ and ‘Country Diaries’
Choi Bool Am began his acting journey on stage in 1959, making his debut in a production of William Shakespeare’s ‘Hamlet.’
He later joined the National Theater Company of Korea in 1965 before beginning his television career in 1967.
He rose to widespread popularity through the MBC crime drama ‘Chief Inspector,’ in which he played detective Park Young Han.
The series aired from 1971 to 1989 and became one of the defining television productions of its time.
His portrayal of a detective committed to justice helped establish his reputation as a respected leading actor.
Another major milestone came with ‘Country Diaries,’ the long-running rural family drama that aired from 1980 to 2002.
Choi portrayed a warm and dependable village patriarch, a role that strengthened his image as one of South Korea’s most beloved on-screen father figures.
His television credits also included popular productions such as ‘Princess Hours,’ ‘Gourmet’ and ‘Glorious Day.’
Beyond scripted dramas, he remained connected with audiences through the documentary programme ‘Korean Cuisine and Dining,’ which he hosted for 14 years beginning in 2011.
Choi eventually stepped down from the programme in 2025 following health difficulties that affected his mobility after spinal surgery.
His departure marked the end of a long-running chapter in his broadcasting career.
Tributes Pour In for the Beloved Veteran Actor
News of Choi’s passing prompted tributes from across South Korea.
President Lee Jae Myung expressed his condolences, describing the actor as the “father of our era” and remembering the characters that had made him beloved by generations of viewers.
The president referred to Choi’s memorable portrayals of a justice-minded detective and a loving father, noting that his performances would remain in the hearts of the public. He also recalled the actor’s words:
“Becoming a good actor starts with becoming a good person.”
Choi’s influence extended beyond his acting career.
In 1992, he entered politics and served as a proportional representation lawmaker in South Korea’s 14th National Assembly from 1992 to 1996 under the Unification National Party.
He subsequently returned to acting.
His work on ‘Chief Inspector’ and ‘Country Diaries’ helped shape his public image, with many viewers associating him with the values and warmth of the characters he portrayed.
His distinctive voice, expressive performances and long-standing presence on television made him a recognisable figure across generations.
Choi Bool Am is survived by his wife, actress Kim Min Ja, his son Choi Dong Nyeok and his daughter Choi Dong Bi.
His funeral arrangements have been made at Asan Medical Center in Seoul, with ChildFund Korea overseeing the funeral.
With a career that began on the theatre stage and continued for more than 60 years, Choi leaves behind an extensive body of work.
His performances in ‘Chief Inspector’ and ‘Country Diaries’ remain central to his legacy, ensuring that his contribution to Korean television will be remembered for years to come.
