The Korean film industry mourns the loss of a true pioneer. Kim Young-in, the legendary actor and martial arts master who defined the “stuntman” era of Korean cinema, passed away on January 4 at the age of 83.
From All-Star Athlete to the “Flying Actor”
Born in Yangpyeong in 1943, Kim was a natural powerhouse. Before finding his way to the silver screen, he mastered hockey, rugby, and boxing. His passion for combat evolved during his university years, where he became deeply immersed in Chinese and Japanese martial arts.
He officially stepped into the spotlight in 1966 with Director Kim Ki-duk’s Burning Youth. However, it was his breathtaking stunts in 5 Marines that earned him his iconic nickname: “The Flying Actor.”
A Career Spanning 500 Films
Kim Young-in wasn’t just a face on camera; he was the backbone of Korean action choreography. Over his illustrious career:
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Total Credits: Appeared in approximately 500 films, including hits like The Real Chronicles of Kim Du-han, No Blood No Tears, Arahan, and Crying Fist.
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The Master Teacher: He served as the action director for over 200 films, training legendary stars like Lee Dae-geun and Kim Hee-ra to move with precision and power.
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Small Screen Success: In 1989, he captivated TV audiences by playing the legendary Kim Du-han in the KBS drama Mupungjidae.
A Lasting Legacy
In recognition of his immense contribution to the industry, Kim was honored with the Special Acting Award at the 43rd Grand Bell Awards in 2006. He also dedicated his later years to the industry as the Standing Director of the Korea Film Actors Association.
Final Farewell Information
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Location: Room 7, Sinchon Severance Hospital Funeral Hall.
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Funeral Procession: January 6, 7:40 AM.
Kim Young-in leaves behind a legacy of grit, athleticism, and a cinematic fire that paved the way for the high-octane Korean action films we love today.
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