As of early 2026, interest in the late South Korean actor Na Chul (also spelled Na Cheol) remains deeply felt among K-drama fans. Three years after his passing, audiences continue to search for Na Chul movies and seek clarity on Na Chul cause of death, his personal life, and his enduring friendship with co-stars.
This past January marked the third anniversary of his death, a moment that reminded the industry of the talent lost too soon. Here is a complete update on his life, his career, and how he was remembered this year.
Who Was Na Chul? (Biography and Early Life)
Na Chul was a versatile South Korean actor known for his ability to seamlessly blend into any genre, from high-stakes thrillers to emotional human dramas.
- Birth date: December 24, 1986
- Birthplace: Goyang, Gyeonggi Province, South Korea
- High school: Jeodong High School (Graduated)
- College: Seoul Institute of the Arts (Department of Acting)
- Official debut: 2010, theater play Anne’s Diary
He built a reputation as a “scene stealer”—a reliable actor who could elevate the tension or emotion of a story, regardless of his screen time.
na chul scene in weak hero class 1
Na Chul Wife and Family: What Is Known
Many fans search for information regarding Na Chul’s wife, but the actor was known for strictly protecting his family’s privacy.
What is publicly confirmed:
- He was married to a non-celebrity woman.
- He is survived by one son.
The depth of his love for his family was highlighted by his close friend and co-star, actress Kim Go-eun. Following his passing, she promised to look after his “two treasures,” a phrase widely interpreted as referring to his wife and young son. She famously described him as:
“The most amazing man, dad, husband, son, and friend.”
Na Chul Cause of Death: The Confirmed Details
While early reports were vague, clearer details regarding Na Chul cause of death have circulated since his passing.
- Date of death: January 21, 2023
- Age: 36
- Place of death: Soonchunhyang University Hospital, Seoul
What happened? While his agency, UL Entertainment, officially cited “exacerbated health issues,” subsequent reports clarified the nature of the sudden tragedy. It was reported that Na Chul was hospitalized due to a neck abscess (retropharyngeal abscess). Unfortunately, his condition deteriorated rapidly, leading to sepsis (septic shock), from which he did not recover.
This sudden turn of events—passing away from an infection complications at such a young age—is why the news was so shocking to the public and his colleagues.
2026 News: Kim Go-eun Honors Na Chul on the Third Anniversary
This past month, January 2026, brought Na Chul back into the headlines as friends and fans marked three years since he left.
Actress Kim Go-eun, who shared a profound bond with Na Chul, once again honored his memory. As she has done in previous years, she reportedly visited his resting place to pay her respects around the anniversary of his passing (January 21).
Kim Go-eun and Na Chul’s friendship began through their work together in:
- The film Tune in for Love (Yoo Yeol’s Music Album)
- The tvN drama Little Women
Her continued public remembrance of him—three years later—demonstrates that his impact on his colleagues was not fleeting. It serves as a reminder to fans of the warm, “coolest person” he was behind the scenes.
Na Chul Movies: Essential Viewing
Na Chul’s filmography is a testament to his range. If you are looking to watch his best work, these are the top Na Chul movies:
- Concrete Utopia (2023): Released posthumously, he played a resident of Unit 908 in this massive disaster thriller.
- Sinkhole (2021): He played Min-joon, adding to the ensemble cast of this disaster-comedy.
- Tune in for Love (2019): A role that cemented his bond with lead actress Kim Go-eun.
- Extreme Job (2019): He appeared as a gang member in this record-breaking box office hit.
- 1987: When the Day Comes (2017): A serious role as a public security investigator.
Na Chul Dramas: Roles Fans Remember Most
While he was great in film, global fans likely recognize him from his standout roles in hit K-dramas:
- Weak Hero Class 1 (2022): As Kim Gil-soo, a menacing villain role that showcased his intensity.
- Vincenzo (2021): As Na Deok-jin, a memorable part of the Babel Group storyline.
- Happiness (2021): As Na Soo-min, the “YouTuber in the apartment” whom fans loved to hate.
- Little Women (2022): He played the public defender for Oh In-joo.
- Hospital Playlist 2 (2021): A cameo as Kim U-jae.
FAQs
What is Na Chul cause of death? Na Chul passed away due to septic shock (sepsis) resulting from a worsening neck abscess.
Who is Na Chul wife? He was married to a non-celebrity woman. Out of respect for their privacy, her name and photo have never been released to the public.
Did Na Chul have children? Yes, he left behind one son.
What was Na Chul’s last movie? His final film released to the public was the blockbuster Concrete Utopia, which premiered in August 2023, several months after his death.
