The Korean drama ‘Bloodhounds’ became a global hit as soon as it aired, with the first episode depicting a congressman’s son using his connections to bully classmates at school. Sharp-eyed viewers noticed that the role of the congressman was played by the late actor Song Young-Kyu. After a drunk driving controversy last year, his career hit a slump, and he was found dead in his car on August 4 of the same year, at the age of 55.
Song Young-Kyu was well known for his role as ‘Chief Choi’ in the film ‘Extreme Job’, which became one of his signature performances. He also acted in many hit dramas and films, including ‘Misaeng’, ‘Reply 1988’, ‘Woman of Dignity’, and ‘Voice’. Known as a celebrated supporting actor, he was arrested for drunk driving in June last year, which severely damaged his reputation. He withdrew from the stage play ‘Shakespeare in Love’. At that time, two drama projects—‘Refund Children’ and ‘TRY: We Become Miracles’—were affected as well, with his scenes being reduced.
Unexpectedly, Song Young-Kyu was found dead in his car on August 4, leaving behind a wife and two daughters. Friends and family revealed in interviews that, on top of the drunk driving incident, he was already under significant stress: ‘There were personal issues and a decrease in job opportunities, which led to a vicious cycle. He seemed to turn to drinking as a way to forget his pain. People around him tried to persuade him, but it’s truly heartbreaking.’
According to information compiled by Korean media, ‘Bloodhounds’ was filmed from February to August last year. Now, with the airing of the drama, viewers speculate that Song Young-Kyu experienced his drunk driving apology and ensuing public criticism either during or right after filming. This show thus became his final work.#
Source: ETtoday Star Cloud