The sudden passing of actor Song Jae Rim has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry.
Those who recently worked with Song are expressing disbelief. Park Ho San expressed his grief, saying, “I’m devastated, truly. Jae Rim, you’re so bright and full of life; I can’t believe this. I’m sorry for not staying in touch and taking better care of you.” Park Ho San and Song Jae Rim appeared together on the 2019 JTBC variety show Surfing House, where they became close friends.
Broadcaster Hong Seok Cheon shared a photo of Song smiling radiantly. He wrote, “It’s heartbreaking that I won’t see this wonderful smile again, and to have to let you go without a proper farewell is so painful.”
Jung Eun Pyo also paid his respects, writing, “Farewell. May this journey bring you happiness.” The two had worked together in the 2012 MBC drama The Moon Embracing the Sun. Comedian Byun Ki Soo left a brief comment, “Rest in peace,” expressing his condolences.
Kim Min Kyo reacted in disbelief, recalling, “Jae Rim, just a month ago we talked on the phone, and you sounded so bright, telling me you were performing in a play. Why…?” He continued, “I’m left to carry another star in my heart. I will remember you forever.”
Yoo Sun and Lee Yoon Ji, who co-starred with Song in the 2022 film Good Morning, also paid tribute on their social media accounts. Yoo Sun posted a photo with Song and wrote, “Jae Rim, this is so heartbreaking. May you find peace and rest.” Yoo Sun and Song had previously worked together in the 2016 SBS drama My Gap Soon. Lee Yoon Ji wrote, “If only you hadn’t… I remember your pure heart. Live freely over there.”
Lee El, who starred alongside Song in the 2022 film Yaksha: Ruthless Operations, left a brief message, “I’m sorry, Jae Rim.”
As fans continue to express their condolences, Kim So Eun’s social media has been filled with messages from Song’s global fanbase. Fans have been posting in multiple languages, asking, “Are you okay?” and “This isn’t true, right?” Kim So Eun and Song Jae Rim became well-known as a virtual couple on the 2014 MBC variety show We Got Married, where they were awarded Best Couple at the MBC Entertainment Awards. They also reunited in the 2016 SBS drama My Gap-soon, where their on-screen chemistry led to enthusiastic viewer support and even dating rumors.
>> Song Jae Rim Passes Away at 39
The day after his passing, news broke that he had signed with a new agency. YTN reported today that Song Jae Rim had been working independently through the first half of this year after his contract with Saram Entertainment ended last year. He recently decided to join a new startup agency.
Manager A, an industry veteran who founded the new management company, spoke to YTN by phone, saying, “He’s well-regarded as a kind-hearted actor, which led to several recommendations from those around him. We held multiple meetings since the beginning of the year and eventually signed a contract. We’ve had many conversations about his career plans, and he’s a passionate actor who expressed a strong desire to work on numerous projects.”
