South Korean Actor Kim Bum To Play As Legendary Martial Artist Bruce Lee In A New Chinese Television Show

26-year-old South Korean actor Kim Bum reportedly lands the role to play as late Bruce Lee in a new Chinese TV show, as reported by Korea Times on Thursday. Bruce Lee was known as a legendary martial artist, actor and filmmaker.

Lee died at a young age of 32 after he reportedly suffered from allergic reaction to the tranquilizer meprobamate. The late actor has starred in a number of films including "The Big Boss" and "Way of the Dragon." Aside from that, a couple of semi-biographical films about Lee were also produced in 1979 and 2010.

"Bruce Lee was an international star," says Pan Xiaotian, director and producer of the TV show. "People from across the world honored his mentality. Why does a Chinese actor have to be Bruce Lee?"

South Korean actor Kim will portray Lee for a show tentatively titled "Yip Man and Bruce Lee." The new show will air in Jiangsu Broadcasting Corporation.

Korea Joongang Daily reported on Friday that a lineup of Chinese actors and actresses will be featured in the new show, with Kim as the only Korean actor in the project.

"It is quite meaningful for a Korean actor to play the role of a legendary Hong Kong action star," says King Kong Entertainment, Kim's agency.

Soompi noted on Sept. 30 that some well-known actors were candidates to play as the late Lee for Chinese show. These actors include: Li Yi Feng, Yang Yang, William Chan and Kevin Cheng.

"While I was attending Busan International Film Festival, a friend recommended Kim Bum," Pan Xiaotian reveals.

On the other hand, Kim says he loves the late actor.

"I love Bruce Lee. I've enjoyed his movies since I was young," he says.

According to reports, shooting for the new TV show will start later this month. South Korea staff will also assist in the filming of "Yip Man and Bruce Lee." Also, Jiangxi Television, Yangzhou Television, and Suzhou television are co-producers of the show.