Jeon Yoo-seong, a veteran South Korean comedian widely revered as the "godfather of comedy" for his exceptional wit and warm personality, passed away on Thursday at the age of 76. The beloved entertainer died at approximately 9:05 p.m. after his condition of pulmonary pneumothorax deteriorated, according to an announcement from the Korea Broadcasting Comedy Association.
Born in 1949, Jeon initially pursued his passion for the performing arts by studying theater and directing at Sorabol College of Arts. He launched his entertainment career in 1968 when he was specially recruited as a comedy writer at broadcaster TBC, marking the beginning of what would become a legendary journey in Korean entertainment.
Transitioning from writing to performing, Jeon quickly rose to prominence through his appearances on hit television programs including "Humor No. 1" and "Show Video Jockey." His natural comedic talent and charismatic stage presence helped establish him as a central figure during the golden age of Korean broadcast comedy, which spanned the 1970s and 1980s and defined an entire generation's sense of humor.
In the late 1990s, Jeon demonstrated his visionary approach to comedy entertainment by playing a pioneering role as the creator of KBS's "Gag Concert," a groundbreaking open comedy program. This landmark show became a cultural phenomenon, captivating audiences for more than two decades and influencing countless comedians who followed in his footsteps.
Jeon is survived by his daughter, who will carry on his legacy. His funeral arrangements will be conducted under the official auspices of the Korea Broadcasting Comedy Association, with the mourning altar being set up at Asan Medical Center in Seoul, where friends, colleagues, and fans can pay their final respects to the comedy icon.
