South Korean Actor Park Dong-Bin, Known as 'Juice Uncle,' Passes Away at 56

The South Korean entertainment industry mourns the loss of Park Dong-Bin, affectionately known as 'Juice Uncle,' who passed away at the age of 56. Found unresponsive in a restaurant he was about to open, initial investigations revealed no signs of foul play. With a career spanning over 30 years, Park was celebrated for his roles in both film and television. His nickname originated from a memorable scene in a popular drama, which endeared him to fans. A wake is being held for him, attended by family and loved ones, as they prepare for his final farewell.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 30, 2026, 11:05 IST

Tragic Loss of Park Dong-Bin

Park Dong-Bin, affectionately referred to as 'Juice Uncle,' has sadly passed away at the age of 56, as reported by various industry sources. His lifeless body was discovered in a restaurant that was on the verge of opening, with authorities indicating no evidence of foul play. Initial investigations revealed no signs of criminal activity, and he was promptly taken from the scene. A wake is being held at the Anseong Civic Funeral Hall located in Gyeonggi Province, attended by close family members including his wife, Lee Sang Yi, their daughter, and his siblings.

Details Surrounding His Death

Park Dong-Bin's Untimely Demise

The beloved South Korean actor passed away on April 29, 2026, at the age of 56. With a career spanning three decades, he was renowned for his compelling supporting roles in both film and television. Reports indicate that an acquaintance discovered him unresponsive around 4:25 p.m. on that fateful day in a restaurant he was preparing to launch in Jangan-dong, Pyeongtaek, Gyeonggi Province. A police inquiry found no indications of criminal activity or foul play, and no suicide note was located. The exact cause of death remains undisclosed. His funeral services are scheduled for the morning of May 1, 2026, at the Anseong Civic Funeral Hall, where his family is mourning in VIP Room 5.

The Origin of 'Juice Uncle'

Why Park Dong-Bin is Affectionately Known as 'Juice Uncle'

The nickname 'Juice Uncle' originated from a memorable scene in the 2012 MBC drama I Love You I'm Sorry (also known as Did We Love?). In this scene, his character reacts in shock to unexpected news, resulting in him spitting out orange juice, which became a humorous and iconic moment. This led to the public endearingly referring to him as 'Juice Uncle'.

Park Dong-Bin first gained recognition with the 1998 film Shiri and went on to star in various films such as You Can Do It, A Short Love Story, Theater, Volcano High, Millennium Falcon, Taegukgi: Brotherhood Of War, and Beauty of Joseon Triplets. His television credits include yainshidae, Immortal Admiral Yi Sun-sin, Daughters of Kim Yak-guk, Dae Joyeong, The King and I, Sungkyunkwan Scandal, King Gwanggaeto the Great, and Mussin, among others.