Novelist Lee Oisoo Passes Away at 76 While Battling Pneumonia

by Kim Heeyun

Published 25 Apr.2022 21:17(KST)

Writer Lee Oisoo / Photo by Asia Economy DB

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Heeyoon] Novelist Lee Oisoo passed away on the 25th at the age of 76. It is known that he had been battling a cerebral hemorrhage at Hallym University Chuncheon Sacred Heart Hospital until recently.

Born in 1946 in Hamyang, Gyeongnam, he entered Chuncheon National University of Education in 1965 but dropped out in 1972. In the same year, he debuted in the literary world by winning the Gangwon Ilbo New Year's Literary Contest with his short story "Apprentice Children."

He officially debuted in 1975 by winning the "Sedae" magazine New Writer's Literary Award with his novella "The Instructor." He continued his prolific writing career by publishing novels such as "Stray Dog," "Knife," "Jangsu Sky Beetle," and "Byeok-o Geumhakdo."

In addition, he built a diverse literary world by releasing poetry collections like "Grass Flower, Wine Glass, Butterfly" and "Longing Also Becomes a Fossil," as well as essays such as "Haak Haak" and "Youth Invincible."

During his childhood, he aspired to be a painter and was recognized for his artistic talent, having won awards at art exhibitions while attending Chuncheon National University of Education. Later, he held the "Erotic Art Exhibition of Four" in 1990 and a solo exhibition of Seonhwa (immortal paintings) in 1994.

He was also active across various media, including terrestrial entertainment programs, sitcoms, cable TV, and advertising, contributing broadly to the cultural scene.

Known by the nickname "Giin" (eccentric genius) and matching public interest, he had over 1.7 million Twitter followers and was known as the "Twitter President" for his outspoken political statements on social networking services (SNS).

Although born at his maternal family's home in Hamyang, Gyeongnam, he grew up at his paternal family's home in Inje County, Gangwon Province, maintaining a deep connection with Gangwon-do. After entering university, he lived and wrote in Chuncheon for over 30 years. Since 2006, he moved to Gamseong Village in Damok-ri, Sangseo-myeon, Hwacheon County, where he served as village chief and remained until his illness worsened.

Diagnosed with stage 2 stomach cancer in 2014 and undergoing surgery, he suffered a cerebral hemorrhage in April 2020 and had been focusing on rehabilitation until recently.

It was reported that his condition worsened recently after being transferred to the emergency room due to pneumonia symptoms.