Squid Game actor Lee Joo-sil dies months after cancer diagnosis

Tributes have been posted on social media for the actress.

Joo-Sil was diagnosed with after suffering with stomach cancer last year.

According to Korean national newspaper, The Chosen Ilbo, she died earlier today at her family home in the South Korean city of Uijeongbu.

Lee played Hwang Joon-ho’s (Wi Ha-joon) mother in the second season of the much-loved dystopian drama.

Joo-sil was previously diagnosed with breast cancer 30 years ago and was given one month to live.

Tributes to the star have been paid on social media after news of her passing.

One fan wrote: "RIP Lee Joo Sil". Another, celebrating another of her roles, said: "Actress Lee Joo Sil who played the role of Somun’s grandmother in The Uncanny Counter passes away today. Condolences. May she rest in peace."

Actress Lee Joo Sil who played the role of Somun’s grandmother in The Uncanny Counter passes away today.

Condolences 💐 May she rest in peace🤍🕊️ pic.twitter.com/Z7ehc6dBlw

— 🌈✨👊 (@bk_iyeyo) February 2, 2025

Rest In Peace Veteran Actress Lee Joosil 🤍
she played songhwa's patient, brain tumor patient in hospital playlist season 2 ep.8 pic.twitter.com/NWiCNLNonc

— Namon⁵⁺⁺⁺🍓🍒🏖️ (@TeamIkSong) February 2, 2025