A Voice That Defined a Generation
It’s a sad start to the new year here in Seoul as we say goodbye to a true legend. Song Do-soon, a veteran voice actress whose career spanned over five decades, passed away on New Year’s Eve at the age of 77. If you grew up in Korea anytime from the 70s onwards, you absolutely know her voice. She was most famous for being the narrator of the American cartoon ‘Tom and Jerry’ when it aired here on MBC. What’s interesting is that the original cartoon has almost no dialogue, but the Korean version added her witty, playful narration, and it became an absolute sensation! Her voice brought the characters’ antics to life in a way that resonated deeply with Korean audiences, making her version arguably more famous here than the original.
More Than Just a Cartoon Narrator
While ‘Tom and Jerry’ was her most iconic role, Song Do-soon was a powerhouse in the industry with a massive body of work. She started her career in 1967 with the Tongyang Broadcasting Company (TBC) and later worked with KBS after the media consolidation in the 80s. She lent her voice to other famous animations like ‘101 Dalmatians’ and was a major star in radio, hosting a beloved show called ‘Evening Road Together’ on TBS for 17 years. She was so popular that she earned the nickname ‘Clear-Sounding Auntie’ (‘똑소리 아줌마’), a testament to her sharp wit and comforting voice that accompanied many people on their drive home from work. She wasn’t just behind the microphone either; she often appeared on popular TV variety shows and even acted in dramas.
A Legacy of Talent and Hard Work
Throughout her illustrious career, Song Do-soon received numerous accolades, including the Grand Prize at the Korea Broadcasting Awards in 1975 and the prestigious Bogwan Order of Cultural Merit in 2020. She was not only a star but also a mentor, establishing a speech academy to nurture the next generation of voice actors. A few years ago, she bravely shared her battle with thyroid cancer, showing her resilient spirit. Her passing is a huge loss, and many celebrities and fans have been sharing their condolences, remembering her as a ‘great star’ who gifted them with beautiful childhood memories.
Remembering a National Treasure
Song Do-soon is survived by her husband and two sons, one of whom, Park Jun-hyuk, is also a well-known actor. Her voice was a comforting and joyful presence in so many Korean homes for such a long time. While we won’t be able to hear her on new broadcasts, her legendary work on ‘Tom and Jerry’ and countless other programs will ensure that her unique, unforgettable voice lives on in the memories of millions. Rest in peace, ‘Clear-Sounding Auntie.’
