“When it is time to go and you have lived your life to the fullest, a bright photo is nice, too,” Kim Soo-mi said in the TV show “Master in the House.”
“Death is something to accept,” she said. “Everyone dies, right?”
Beloved national actress Kim Soo-mi peacefully passed away on Oct. 25. The Seocho police have confirmed that her death was caused by a cardiac arrest due to high blood sugar. Kim, a veteran actress of 73, had suspended her acting earlier in May when she was hospitalized due to extreme fatigue.
Kim’s funeral will take place at Hanyang University Hospital from Oct. 25-27.
Kim rose to stardom after acting in “Country Diaries,” starring in many successful movies and dramas ever since. This includes her witty portrayal of a quirky vampire in the 2005 sitcom, “Goodbye Francesca.” Many people also remember her as the iconic cursing old lady in the 2015 comedy movie, “Hellmoney.”
However, Kim is remembered as more than just an actress. She was known as a “national mom” or “national grandmother” after her cooking show, “Mother’s Touch: Korean Side Dishes” aired. Many celebrities and fans praised her cooking skills, claiming eating her food evoked emotion and reminiscence of their mother’s foods.
Her sudden death has brought shock and sadness to the entire entertainment community. Veteran 86-year-old actress Kim Young-ok expressed shock at the news, recalling their 40-year friendship. Many celebrities were also seen crying at her funeral, including actor Shin Hyun-joon, who had a mother and son-like relationship with the actress, and actress Seo Hyo-rim, Kim’s daughter-in-law.
“I was absolutely devastated when I heard the news,” Philip Bliss (11), avid K-drama watcher, said. “I still remember watching ‘Hell Money’ back in 2015. Although it’s been a long time, her acting still lingers in my head. I would say I was in deep sorrow for quite a few days.”
Kim Soo-mi’s legacy endures not only in her unforgettable roles but also in the warmth, humor, and comfort she brought to Koreans, like a national mother.
