’90s National MC ‘Uncle Popeye’ Lee Sang-yong Passes Away, Leaving Behind a Heartwarming Legacy of 4,300 Military Visits
π€ “The Big Brother of 600,000 Soldiers” Uncle Popeye Lee Sang Yong: The Laughter and Courage He Left Behind
A True National MC Who Comforted South Korea with 4300 Military Support Broadcasts
π Table of Contents
π¨ From ‘Popeye’ Breaking Bricks to National MC
At a height of 160cm with a muscular build, his performances of breaking bricks were truly memorable during my childhood days watching television in the 90s! Lee Sang Yong’s image was so strong that it matched the nickname ‘Popeye,’ beloved in everything from children’s shows to entertainment. Notably, he made a unique debut through street casting in KBS’s “Let’s Sing Together”, marking a true ‘star birth’ moment! π€
ποΈ A Special Broadcasting Life as a Military Officer
Graduating from Korea University with a major in forestry and serving as an ROTC officer! Isnβt it surprising to hear such a different background from your usual broadcasters? During his military service, he naturally stood out in military programs. After debuting in 1973 with MBC’s “Cheerful Blue and White,” he showcased his talents across various genres, including children’s shows and variety shows. He was also a talented basketball player during his school years. Truly a ‘capable person’! πͺ
β€οΈ The Reason Behind Becoming the “Real Big Brother” through 4300 Military Supports
The nickname “The Big Brother of 600,000 Soldiers” wasn’t earned overnight. Beginning with ‘Stage of Friendship’ in 1989, he became a true ‘military specialist MC’ by completing over 4300 military support appearances, including the National Military Broadcasting ‘Cheering Train’. I recall my own brother sending me letters about watching Uncle Lee Sang Yong’s performances while in the army. It must have been one of the most awaited moments during those lonely times. πΆ
π’ Sudden Passing and Tributes from the Entertainment Industry
On May 9, 2025, it was reported that he passed away due to cardiac arrest while returning home after a hospital visit, shocking many. Social media was filled with the hashtag “#ThankYouUnclePopeye,” and fellow entertainers shared their tributes. Many remembered his lifelong dedication and warm smile. It was a truly fitting end for a ‘national MC.’ πΉ
π The True Image of Lee Sang Yong That We Should Remember
He was not just a broadcaster but a cultural icon who brought hope to soldiers and people in South Korea. Behind the strong image shown in brick-breaking lies a warm humanity and an unwavering spirit of dedication! Isn’t that what we truly need in these times? The sincerity shown by Uncle Lee Sang Yong will be remembered for a long time to come. What memories do you have of Uncle Lee Sang Yong? β¨
β Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are some of Lee Sang Yong’s famous programs?
A: He is well-known for military support programs like ‘Stage of Friendship’ and ‘Cheering Train’, but he also made appearances on various entertainment shows like KBS’s ‘Let’s Sing Together’ and MBC’s ‘Cheerful Blue and White’!
Q: How did he earn the nickname ‘Popeye’?
A: His muscular build and brick-breaking performances reminded people of the cartoon character ‘Popeye’, and he indeed had very strong arm muscles! γ γ
Q: How many military support events did he attend?
A: It’s confirmed that he participated in over 4300 events! He often visited multiple units in a single day, which is an extraordinary record.
Q: What is known about Lee Sang Yong’s education and military career?
A: He graduated from Korea University with a degree in forestry and served as an officer through ROTC. This background helped him connect well with military personnel!
Q: Is there a place to pay tribute to him?
A: His family held an informal funeral in accordance with their wishes, but his achievements will be forever recorded in the history of South Korea.
π Epilogue: Our Big Brother
I remember watching Uncle Lee Sang Yong breaking bricks on TV as a child and being amazed. However, as an adult, I realized that what made him truly great was not just his physical strength, but the warm humanity he showed through over 4300 military support events.
I once received a signed postcard from him to my cousin in the military. It simply said, “Stay strong, soldier!” but my cousin cherished it so much that he kept it in his wallet for a long time. I think it was such small acts of kindness that led him to earn the title “The Big Brother of 600,000 Soldiers.”
In these times, what we need is not a perfect star but people who, like Uncle Lee Sang Yong, give their all. Do you have any memories related to Uncle Lee Sang Yong? I would really appreciate it if you could share them in the comments. π
PS. I was deeply impressed when he said in his last interview, “It’s not that I give laughter; it’s because you smile that I smile.” This made me reflect on what the true attitude of an entertainer really is.
