Culture Minister Choi Hwiyoung Pays Tribute to Late Choi Bulam: "Warmly Comforted Us in Our Everyday Lives"

Choi Hwi-young, Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism, expressed his condolences over the death of actor Choi Bul-am through social media.

“I am deeply saddened by and offer my condolences on the passing of beloved national actor Choi Bul-am,” Minister Choi wrote. “For many years, you warmly comforted us in our everyday lives as the righteous Chief Inspector Park in ‘Chief Inspector,’ the kindhearted father in ‘Country Diaries,’ and a reassuring guide on ‘A Korean Table.’”

He also recalled visiting Choi in the hospital last June. “When I visited you in your hospital room last June, you greeted me with your trademark hearty laugh and warmly held my hand, saying, ‘Let’s have a glass of Makgeolli when I’m discharged soon,’” Minister Choi wrote. “I cannot hide my heavy heart as I see you off on your final journey without ever being able to keep that promise.”

He continued, “You were a great senior figure and pillar of support in Korea’s cultural and artistic community, and a warm memory cherished by every citizen across generations. You laughed and cried alongside the people throughout your life. I join my hands in prayer that you may rest in peace.”

Minister Choi concluded, “I also extend my heartfelt condolences to your spouse, actor Kim Min-ja, who stood steadfastly by your side for so many years, and to your bereaved family.”

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.