Song Hae, who was born in 1927 in what is now the North Korean town of Jaeryong, was one of the millions of North Korean refugees who fled to the South during the Korean War, which lasted from 1950 to 1953.

He began his career in the entertainment industry as a singer in the late 1950s, but it was as a comedian that he broke through. As a cuddly personality who peppered visitors with wisecracks and quips, he became a staple on TV and radio shows.

Since 1988, Song has hosted the “National Singing Contest.” The show, which airs on Sundays at noon, travels across the country to cities and villages where amateur singing competitions are held.

Song’s long tenure on the show solidified his reputation as a television legend. In the heart of Seoul, he has a street named after him, and in the southern city of Daegu, there is a “Song Hae Park.”

Song leaves behind two daughters. The Seoul National University Hospital has put up a grieving hall for Song, who will be buried on Friday after a three-day funeral procession.

Television shows

Year Title Network Role Notes Ref.
2021 The Age of Destiny TV Chosun Cast member

Film

Year Title Role Notes Ref.
2021 Songhae 1927 himself documentary film