Korean actor Park Zi-a dies at 52 while battling cerebral infarction

Korean actor Park Zi-a, best known for her role as Moon Dong-eun’s mother in the Netflix series The Glory passed away on September 30 at the age of 52. She succumbed to cerebral infarction, a type of stroke caused by a blockage in the blood vessels supplying blood to the brain. Her demise has left a void in the Korean entertainment industry, where she was celebrated for her versatility and powerful performances.

Park Zi-a made her acting debut in 2002 with the film The Coast Guard. Over the years, she established herself as a talented actor capable of delivering compelling performances across a wide range of projects. Her versatility and commitment to her craft earned her critical acclaim and a loyal fan base. Notable works in her filmography include Bloody Heart Epitaph and Cleaning Up which showcased her ability to captivate audiences with her depth and range.

However, it was her portrayal of Jeong Mi-hee in The Glory that truly left a lasting impression on viewers worldwide. Park Zi-a’s performance as the cold-hearted and manipulative mother of the protagonist, Dong-eun (played by Song Hye-kyo), was both powerful and disturbing. Her ability to bring such a complex character to life resonated deeply with the audience and established her as a force to be reckoned with in the acting community.

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Earlier this year, despite her declining health, Park Zi-a continued to engage with audiences through her stage performances. She starred in the play Wife where her commitment to the role was evident, even as she faced health challenges. Unfortunately, as her condition worsened, she was forced to step away from her acting career, a decision that saddened her fans and colleagues alike.

In a statement released by her agency, Billions, they expressed their grief over the loss of such a talented artist, stating, "Park Zi-a passed away from cerebral infarction. We will not forget the passion of the deceased who loved performing." The agency’s words reflect the impact she made on the industry and the people she worked with.

As per The Korean Herald a memorial altar has been set up in the funeral hall of Asan Medical Center in Songpa-gu, Seoul, where Park Zi-a’s fans and well-wishers can pay their respects until October 2. The memorial provides an opportunity for the public to honor her memory and celebrate her contributions to the entertainment world.

Park Zi-a’s untimely death serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of life and the importance of appreciating artists while they are still with us. She leaves behind a legacy of impactful performances that will continue to inspire future generations of actors and actresses. Her portrayal of morally complex characters, combined with her natural talent, has cemented her place in the hearts of her fans and peers.

As the Korean entertainment industry mourns the loss of Park Zi-a, her family, friends, and colleagues are left to cherish the memories of her stellar performances and the joy she brought to her craft.