Beloved Actor Choi Bul-am Passes Away at 87, Remembered as 'National Father'

'National Father' and 'eternal Chief of Investigation' Choi Bul-am, who captivated audiences for over half a century, passed away on November 2, surrounded by family, colleagues, and children he cherished throughout his life.

The funeral service was held privately at 7:40 a.m. at the Seoul Asan Hospital, followed by a procession to Yeouido Catholic Church in Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul. A funeral mass was conducted at 9 a.m. to pray for his eternal rest. Choi, who received Catholic baptism in October 2018 from Cardinal Andrew Yeom Soo-jung, had also received the sacrament of the sick just days before his passing.

Cardinal Yeom officiated the mass, stating, "We gather here for the funeral mass of our brother Choi Bul-am, who has now found peace in the Lord's embrace. We pray that his soul rests eternally in God's care." He expressed sorrow over the loss of Choi's warm smile and kind demeanor, recalling how Choi provided comfort and hope during difficult times through his roles as Chief Park in 'Chief of Investigation,' Chairman Kim in 'Country Diary,' and through his heartfelt portrayal of everyday meals in 'Korean Table.'

The cardinal also shared a personal anecdote, recalling Choi's reflections on his vocation as an actor, stating, "While an actor is not a monk, I believe one should live with that spirit. As I grew older, I realized that those loved by the public carry a significant responsibility, and I strive to be mindful of my words and actions." Following the mass, tenor Lim Hyung-joo, who referred to Choi and his wife as 'aunt and uncle,' paid tribute by singing 'Ave Maria' as a farewell.

After the mass, the funeral procession was set to head to the Green Umbrella Foundation headquarters in Mugeo-dong, Jung-gu, Seoul, in accordance with Choi's wishes to visit the foundation after his passing. Choi had been associated with the foundation for 45 years, starting with child sponsorship in 1981, dedicating his life to promoting the value of sharing in child welfare both domestically and internationally. Foundation staff lined the entrance to welcome his portrait, and a representative was scheduled to deliver a eulogy. Following floral tributes from the funeral committee, Choi's portrait would be taken through the foundation, which held significant meaning for him, before proceeding to his final resting place at Donghwa Gyeongmo Park in Paju.