The Eternal ‘Popeye Uncle’ Lee Sang-yong’s Final Farewell

On May 9, 2025, the nation was struck by sudden heartbreaking news. The beloved broadcaster Lee Sang-yong, cherished by all, had passed away—why did this news leave everyone’s hearts so heavy?

Known affectionately as ‘Popeye Uncle,’ Lee Sang-yong left us at the age of 81. Since he had always been in good health without any chronic illness, this news came as an even greater shock.

For many years, Lee Sang-yong earned the love of multiple generations through children’s programs and military entertainment shows. Especially with his warm smile and friendly voice on KBS children’s programming, his presence is deeply engraved in the childhood memories of countless people.

His sudden passing plunged both the broadcasting world and fans into profound sorrow. Lee Sang-yong was more than just a broadcaster—he was a steadfast guardian for children and a warm, brotherly figure for soldiers.

Until his very last moments, Lee Sang-yong sought to contribute to society through lectures. His passion and kind heart will forever live on in all our memories. ‘Popeye Uncle’ Lee Sang-yong, your final farewell brought tears to the eyes of the entire nation as we express our heartfelt gratitude.

The Young Man Who Sang to the Forest, Lee Sang-yong, Becomes a Star in the Broadcasting World

Lee Sang-yong, a boy who grew up amidst the green mountains of Seocheon, Chungnam. His journey to becoming a legend in Korean broadcasting reads like a drama. After graduating from Daejeon High School and entering Korea University’s Department of Forestry, Lee originally dreamed of a life studying forests and trees. But fate led him down a completely different path.

In 1971, at the age of 27, Lee Sang-yong first took the microphone in the CBS radio studio. His broadcasting career, which began in a small studio, gradually expanded onto bigger stages. His voice, infused with the freshness and vitality of the forest, captivated listeners and became his irresistible charm.

Lee’s true brilliance began to shine in 1973 through MBC’s “Cheerful Blue and White War.” His witty hosting and warm voice left a deep impression on viewers, marking the moment he secured his place as a key figure in Korean broadcasting.

Entering the 1990s, Lee Sang-yong reached the peak of his career with the military entertainment program “Stage of Friendship.” His energetic hosting boosted soldiers’ morale and brought joy to the public. During this period, he transcended being a mere presenter to become an icon of the era.

How did a young man who loved the forest take root in the hearts of so many? The secret likely lies in Lee Sang-yong’s warm sensitivity and relentless passion. Like a tree growing steadily and a forest embracing broadly, Lee welcomed viewers with a sincere heart. His story continues to inspire the Korean broadcasting industry to this day.

The Special Name Left Behind by ‘Popeye Uncle’ Lee Sang-yong

Why did children call Mr. Lee Sang-yong “Popeye Uncle”? This nickname carries a meaning far beyond a simple moniker. Originating from a KBS children’s program, this name became a symbol of Lee Sang-yong’s cheerful and approachable nature.

“Popeye Uncle” Lee Sang-yong was beloved for his hosting style that connected perfectly with kids at their eye level. His energetic presence and witty expressions captured children’s hearts, while his popularity extended to military personnel through the army entertainment show “Stage of Friendship.” This cross-generational charm firmly established him as a national MC.

However, the name “Popeye Uncle” signifies much more than just his fame as a broadcaster. Through this name, Lee Sang-yong demonstrated deep social responsibility. He founded the Korea Children’s Protection Association (now Save the Children Korea) and took the lead in social contributions like helping children with heart diseases.

“Following in his footsteps, helping others began with me. The joy from giving surpasses the sadness of witnessing pain…” Lee’s words reveal that the name “Popeye Uncle” is not merely a nickname but a profound symbol of dedication to our society.

Ultimately, the name left by “Popeye Uncle” Lee Sang-yong is a special legacy blending joy, warmth, and social responsibility. This name will continue to inspire many and remind us all of the efforts needed for a brighter future in our society.

Lee Sang-yong’s Heart That Shone Brighter Offstage

What kind of life did Lee Sang-yong live beyond the glare of the broadcasting lights? His true self shone even more brilliantly not in front of the camera, but off the stage.

Dedication to Children with Heart Disease

In the early 2000s, “Uncle Popeye” Lee Sang-yong founded the Korea Child Protection Association (now Save the Children Korea). The organization’s primary mission was to support children suffering from heart disease. Leveraging his fame as a broadcaster, he led efforts to raise social awareness and provide real, tangible help.

Lee Sang-yong’s Touching Words

“Following that person’s example, I started helping others. The joy I feel from giving is greater than the sorrow of seeing pain…”

This is one of Lee Sang-yong’s most famous quotes. In this brief phrase lies the essence of his life philosophy and spirit of service. It reveals a profound insight that helping others is not just a duty, but a joyful act that enriches oneself.

A Life of Sharing Until the Very End

Lee Sang-yong continued his lectures and volunteer work until his final moments. The fact that he was giving a lecture just a day before his passing speaks volumes about the depth of his passion and dedication.

Behind the dazzling image on stage was the true face of Lee Sang-yong—a warm-hearted individual who strived to bring real change to society beyond his fame as a broadcaster. This is the genuine “Uncle Popeye” Lee Sang-yong we should remember.

The Legacy of Lee Sang-yong: A Warm Baton Resonating Across Generations

Though a hero of his generation has passed, the legacy left by Lee Sang-yong continues to shine brightly throughout our society. Through the traces he left in today’s broadcasting world and the field of child welfare, we reflect on the invaluable lessons we can all learn.

Impact on the Broadcasting Industry

Lee Sang-yong’s unique hosting style and warm personality inspired countless younger broadcasters. His character “Ppoppae Uncle” opened new horizons for children’s programming, evolving into various forms that continue to this day. Particularly, his energetic hosting in military variety shows laid the groundwork for many entertainment programs that carry on his spirit today.

Pioneer in Child Welfare

The Korea Children’s Protection Association, founded by Lee Sang-yong and now known as Save the Children Korea, has grown steadily even after his passing, contributing significantly to improving children’s rights and welfare domestically and internationally. The heart disease support project he started has expanded, providing countless children with new opportunities for life.

Carrying Forward the Spirit of Social Contribution

Lee Sang-yong’s words, “I feel happier giving than seeing others suffer,” remind many today of the importance of social giving. His altruistic spirit sparked the spread of donation culture among celebrities and boosted participation in social contribution activities.

A Role Model for Lifelong Learning

Lee Sang-yong continued lecturing until his final moments, serving as a shining example of the importance of lifelong learning. His passion inspires many seniors to remain active in society even after retirement, giving hope for continued engagement beyond their working years.

Lee Sang-yong’s warm heart and passionate approach to life continue to resonate beyond his time. His legacy is not merely a memory of the past but a guiding light for all of us living today, pointing toward a better future. Following in his footsteps, each of us can make the world a little warmer in our own way.