On October 25th, it was reported that Kim Soo-mi passed away earlier that morning at the age of 75.
Previously, in May and July, Kim Soo-mi had been hospitalized due to health reasons, causing her to pause her activities. In September, she was once again surrounded by rumors of health problems.
During a home shopping broadcast at the time, viewers expressed concern over her swollen face and trembling hands. Her slurred speech, which was different from usual, further fueled speculation about her health.
In response to these concerns, Kim Soo-mi’s son Jung Myung-ho, CEO of Napalkkot F&B, explained, “There is no serious issue with my mother’s health. She appeared that way because she had stayed up the night before the broadcast and wasn’t in good condition.” Kim Soo-mi herself added, “The slurred speech was due to dental implants.”
In May, Kim Soo-mi had also been hospitalized due to exhaustion from overwork. At that time, she mentioned feeling fatigued from her busy schedule, which included acting in the play “My Mommy” and appearances on various TV programs like “The President’s People” and “Boss in the Mirror”.
In September, Kim Soo-mi bid farewell to tvN’s variety show “The President’s People”, which she had been a part of since 2024. During the final recording, although her face was visibly swollen, Kim Soo-mi still stood before the camera.
She expressed deep regret over the show’s conclusion and shared heartfelt sentiments that she had not been able to convey before. Kim Soo-mi tearfully addressed her “Country Diaries” family, with whom she had spent many years, saying “While doing ‘The President’s People’, I met them again. They’re truly wonderful people. I’ll probably never forget them until the day I die” while getting emotional.
Born in 1949, Kim Soo-mi debuted in 1971 through MBC’s talent contest. She gained widespread popularity through her roles in the drama “Country Diaries” and the film “Marrying the Mafia: Returns”. She continued her career with appearances in variety shows, films and musicals.
Kim Soo-mi was also known for her excellent cooking skills. She even ran a kimchi business and was active in home shopping broadcasts.
Kim Soo-mi’s son, Jung Myung-ho, married actress Seo Hyo-rim in 2019, and they have a daughter.