South Korean actress Kang Myung Joo passes away after cancer battle

South Korean theatre and television actress Kang Myung Joo, best known for her roles in Extraordinary Attorney Woo (2022) and Wonderful World (2024), has passed away at the age of 54. She succumbed to cancer on 27 February 2025, at 5:52 PM KST, as confirmed by South Korean media outlet Maeil Business Newspaper.

Kang’s passing was mourned by her husband, actor Park Yun Hee, and their two daughters, including actress Park Se Young, who shared an emotional tribute on social media.

"Mom left on a long journey yesterday afternoon. I would be grateful if you could remember the moments on stage that actress Kang Myung Joo loved and shined in," Park Se Young wrote.

A legacy in theatre and television

Kang Myung Joo began her illustrious acting career in 1992 as a member of the Experimental Theater troupe Kooni, Nara. She quickly established herself as a formidable presence in the performing arts, starring in acclaimed stage productions such as Hamlet, Circle of Life, Humans or Gods, and Coriolanus.

Beyond theatre, she made her mark in the television industry, appearing in various supporting roles in notable K-dramas. Her portrayal in Extraordinary Attorney Woo solidified her as a beloved figure among audiences.

Final farewell

Kang Myung Joo’s funeral service is being held at Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital, with her burial scheduled for 2 March 2025, at 7:40 AM KST. Despite her battle with a terminal illness, she remained dedicated to her craft until the very end.

Her passing marks a profound loss to the South Korean entertainment industry, but her legacy as a passionate and dedicated actress will continue to live on in the hearts of her fans and colleagues.