Beloved Broadcaster Lee Sang-yong Passes Away at 81

Lee Sang-yong, the beloved broadcaster known as 'Popeye Uncle' (뽀빠이 아저씨), has sadly passed away today, May 9, 2025. He collapsed while returning from a hospital visit near his home in Seocho-gu, Seoul, due to health issues. Despite being rushed to Seoul St. Mary's Hospital for emergency treatment, he could not be saved.

A close associate of the late broadcaster confirmed the news, stating, "It is true that he has passed away. He had gone to the hospital for a cold and suddenly collapsed on his way out."

Regarding the funeral arrangements, the associate mentioned, "The wake is planned to be held at Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, but there are currently no available rooms. It should be possible starting tomorrow afternoon. Additionally, his son lives in Hong Kong, so we will coordinate the arrangements once he arrives in Korea."

Born in 1944, Lee Sang-yong made his debut as a host on CBS Christian Broadcasting in 1971. He became widely recognized as 'Popeye' while hosting the KBS children's singing program 'Let's Sing Together' (모이자 노래하자) in 1975.

From 1989 onwards, he served as the host of MBC's military support program 'Stage of Friendship' (우정의 무대), where he gained immense popularity and affection from military personnel and their families. He is survived by his wife, two sons, a daughter, a daughter-in-law, and grandchildren.