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Yahoo
11-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
South Korean Singer Wheesung Found Dead at 43
Originally appeared on E! Online K-pop fans are mourning a tragic loss. Wheesung—a singer and songwriter whose real name was Choi Whee-sung—was found dead in his home in Seoul, South Korea, March 10, per his agency Tajoy Entertainment. He was 43. 'The artist Wheesung has left us,' the agency shared in a statement, per The Hollywood Reporter. 'He was found in cardiac arrest at his residence and was later pronounced dead.' The statement added that the company's artists and staff are 'in deep sorrow.' According to The New York Times, fire department officials confirmed the musician was found in a state of cardiac arrest. Additionally, the outlet reports there was no evidence of foul play or a break-in, and authorities are investigating the possibility of a drug overdose, per an officer at Seoul Gwangjin Police Station. Wheesung entered the music scene in 2002 with his album Like a Movie, which won several awards in South Korea at the time of its release. In the years since, Wheesung released a dozen albums, helped write music for K-pop bands such as Twice and Super Junior, and performed in musical theater with roles like Zorro and Elvis Presley. More from E! Online Gigi Hadid Breaks Silence on Bradley Cooper Relationship Father of Mae Whitman's Baby Revealed 6 Months After Welcoming Son Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift Step Out Together for First Time Since Super Bowl In 2021, the artist was found guilty, per The New York Times, of purchasing and using propofol, a sedative that is a controlled substance in South Korea. Following the verdict, Wheesung received a suspended sentence of one year in prison, which he didn't serve under condition that he didn't reoffend. Additionally, he was required to pay a fine equivalent to $41,000, perform community service and undergo drug treatment. According to Variety, Wheesung previously shared his diagnoses with chronic depression, panic disorder and insomnia. The 43-year-old had remained active in the music industry and was scheduled to perform on March 15 in a concert that has since been cancelled. Following Wheesung's passing, a number of artists shared their sadness over the news, including Yoon Min Soo. "Wheesung, let's sing and make music freely in that place,' the South Korean singer wrote on Instagram, per The BBC. 'I won't forget your pure and clear heart. Let's meet again someday and sing together.' Similarly, per the outlet, rapper Verbal Jint wrote on social media, "Every moment we shared was an honor, and I'm grateful. You've worked so hard, rest in peace, Wheesung." For the latest breaking news updates, click here to download the E! News App
See - Sada Elbalad
11-03-2025
- Entertainment
- See - Sada Elbalad
K-Pop Star Wheesung Dead at 43
Korean R&B vocalist Wheesung, who rose to prominence in the early 2000s and helped shape Korea's contemporary music landscape with his soulful ballads and exceptional vocal prowess, was found dead on Monday at his apartment in Seoul's Gwangjin District. He was 43. His agency, Tajoy Entertainment, confirmed the tragic news in a statement, saying 'Wheesung has left us. He was found in cardiac arrest at his home in Seoul and was pronounced deceased.' Police have requested an autopsy from the National Forensic Service to determine the cause of death, noting there were no signs of forced entry or foul play. Born Choi Whee-sung, the artist also performed under the name Realslow. Before launching an influential solo career, Wheesung made his industry debut in 1999 as a member of the four-piece group A4. The veteran singer's 2002 solo debut album 'Like a Movie' marked the arrival of a distinctive voice in Korean music, with his title track 'Can't You' propelling him to immediate chart success. His hits also included a cover of Craig David's 'Insomnia.' Wheesung showed considerable prowess as a songwriter and producer, penning hits for numerous K-pop acts. His writing credits include Younha's 'Password 486' (2007), 'I'll Get Lost, You Go Your Way' (2010), T-ara's 'You Drive Me Crazy' (2010), Orange Caramel's 'Magic Girl' (2012), and Twice's 'Dance the Night Away' (2018). He also launched singer Ailee's career in 2012 by producing her debut single 'Heaven.' Wheesung's career included struggles with legal issues and mental health challenges. In 2019, he was indicted for habitual use of propofol, a controlled anesthetic in Korea, eventually receiving a suspended prison sentence and substantial fine in 2021. In 2020, he was found collapsed after reportedly injecting etomidate, another anesthetic, on two separate occasions. The artist had previously disclosed his diagnosis of chronic depression from 2005, along with panic disorder and insomnia. Wheesung remained active in music until his death and had been scheduled to perform at a ballad concert with singer KCM at Daegu's EXCO Auditorium on Saturday. The event has been canceled. Wheesung's death marks another tragedy in the Korean entertainment industry, which has experienced a string of losses in recent years. Last month, former child actor Kim Sae-ron was found dead at her home at 24. Her career had stalled following a 2022 drunk-driving incident that made it difficult for her to secure new roles. In 2023, actor Song Jae-lim died at 39, while K-pop star Moonbin, a member of boyband Astro, was found dead in his apartment at 25. The industry has weathered several similar losses among young talents, including K-pop artists Goo Hara and Sulli in 2019, Minwoo of boyband 100% in 2018, and SHINee's lead vocalist Jonghyun in 2017.
Muscat Daily
11-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Muscat Daily
Singer Wheesung found dead at 43
Seoul, South Korea – Singer Wheesung, born Choi Wheesung, was found dead on March 10 at the age of 43. Authorities confirmed that Wheesung was discovered collapsed at approximately 6:29pm (local time) in his apartment in Gwangjin-gu, Seoul. Initial investigations revealed no signs of foul play, and the police are currently looking into the circumstances surrounding his death, including the possibility of a will. Wheesung, renowned for his powerful voice and hit songs such as Isn't It Okay , With Me , and Incurable Disease , had been a significant figure in the Korean music scene. Born in 1982, he rose to prominence in the early 2000s, after debuting in 2002 with his album Like a Movie . His soulful R&B ballads and unique vocal style garnered him widespread recognition, and he became a central figure in the popularisation of R&B in Korea. Throughout his career, Wheesung was known not only for his singing talent but also for his skills as a songwriter and music producer. He contributed lyrics to numerous hits by other artists, including songs for Younha, Ailee, and T-ara. His achievements extended beyond music, as he served as a mentor and vocal coach for emerging talents in the industry. Despite his success, Wheesung's life was marked by personal struggles, including legal controversies surrounding the use of sleeping sedatives. In 2020, he faced charges for habitual propofol use, leading to a suspended prison sentence. Nevertheless, Wheesung had been working on a new project and was preparing for a concert with fellow artist KCM, which has since been cancelled following his passing. Tributes poured in from fellow artists and fans alike. Rapper Changmo expressed his gratitude for Wheesung's musical influence, while other industry colleagues, including Paloalto and Hangzoo, shared heartfelt messages of condolence. Wheesung's passing has left a profound void in the Korean music community. His legacy, however, will live on through his iconic songs and contributions to the evolution of Korean R&B music.
The Independent
11-03-2025
- Entertainment
- The Independent
Wheesung death: Popular South Korean singer-songwriter dies aged 43
Popular K-pop singer-songwriter Wheesung, also known by his stage name Realslow, was found dead in his home in Seoul on Monday night. He was 43. Police said they arrived at Wheesung's home in Gwangjin district at 6.29pm after a report from his mother, according to a report in The Korea Herald. The singer was found unresponsive, and police said they believe the artist had been dead for a significant amount of time before he was found. They are currently investigating the cause of death and will request an autopsy from the National Forensic Service. No signs of foul play or forced entry were found at the scene. The singer's agency, Tajoy Entertainment, confirmed his death in a statement late on Monday. 'We are deeply sorry to share such heartbreaking and tragic news. On 10 March, our beloved artist Wheesung passed away. He was found in a state of cardiac arrest at his home in Seoul and was subsequently pronounced deceased,' the agency said in a statement, according to an online translation. 'The sudden loss has left his family, fellow artists at Tajoy Entertainment, and our entire staff in profound grief. It pains us deeply to deliver this devastating news to the fans who have always supported and loved Wheesung. We ask that you keep him in your thoughts and prayers so that he may rest peacefully.' Korean media reported that the agency released another statement on Tuesday stating that the family was in 'great shock and sorrow' and would therefore proceed to hold a private funeral 'quietly with only family, relatives, and acquaintances in attendance' when they felt ready. Wheesung held a fan meeting in February to celebrate his birthday and was set to perform at a concert in Daegu's EXCO Auditorium on 15 March, with fellow singer KCM, which now stands cancelled. Wheesung, whose real name was Choi Whee Sung, debuted in 2002 with his ballad album Like a Movie, but quickly pivoted to R&B the following year with his second album, It's Real. 'This album can be called my true debut album because it reflects my style and musical taste. I want to surprise people with every album I record,' he said in a 2003 interview to The Korea Herald. Enjoy unlimited access to 100 million ad-free songs and podcasts with Amazon Music Sign up now for a 30-day free trial Wheesung continued to gain popularity over the years, collaborating with contemporary K-Pop artists and producers and trying new genres with each successive album. Solidifying his position as one of Korea's leading R&B and ballad singers, he released a string of hits like 'With Me' in 2003, 'Insomnia' in 2009, and 'Even Thought of Marriage' in 2010. His talents extended beyond performing as he became a prolific songwriter, penning lyrics for several popular K-pop tracks. His songwriting credits include Younha's 'Password 486' (2007), GNA's 'I'll Get Lost, You Go Your Way' (2010), T-ara's 'You Drive Me Crazy' (2010), Orange Caramel's 'Magic Girl' (2012), and TWICE's 'Dance the Night Away' (2018). Wheesung also made his mark as a producer. He was behind singer Ailee's 2012 debut digital single 'Heaven', helping launch her into a successful ongoing career. Wheesung got into legal trouble in 2013 when he was investigated for allegedly misusing an anesthetic called propofol by repeatedly asking dermatology clinics in the Gangnam district to write him prescriptions. In 2013, he was cleared of charges. In South Korea, propofol can only be legally prescribed by medical professionals in limited dosages and for medical purposes alone. In 2009, Michael Jackson died from cardiac arrest that was caused by a propofol and benzodiazepine overdose, which he had been given by his physician to help him sleep. Wheesung was investigated again and indicted for illegal propofol usage in 2021 after he was found unconscious in a Seoul shopping mall bathroom and a hotel bathroom the previous year. Syringes and vials of anesthetic etomidate were found next to him, but Wheesung was let go because etomidate is not classified as a narcotic in South Korea. He was finally indicted for habitual use of propofol in 2021 and received a one-year prison sentence, suspended for two years, 40 hours of community service, 40 hours of drug treatment, as well as a fine of 60.5 million won (£32,260). While Wheesung returned to the entertainment industry, his career never returned to the heights it was once at. Tributes from fellow artists and fans came in as news of his death broke. Singer Yoon Min Soo posted a video singing with Wheesung on Instagram and wrote: 'Wheesung, let's sing and make music freely in that place. I won't forget your pure and clear heart. Let's meet again someday and sing together.' 'Thank you for your incredible music, which had a huge impact on my life. Rest in peace,' rapper Changmo said. Another rapper, Verbal Jint, posted a black square on his Instagram, writing: 'Every moment we shared was an honor, and I'm grateful. You've worked so hard, rest in peace, Wheesung.' Rapper Changmo said: "Thank you for your incredible music, which had a huge impact on my life. Rest in peace.' Solar, part of the girl group Mamamoo, posted a tribute on Instagram: 'Thank you for making amazing songs and singing it together with us since Mamamoo 's pre debut when all of us didn't know anything. Also, I will never forget your amazing songs. May you rest in peace.' Musician Harisu posted a picture of Wheesung on Instagram, writing: 'May he rest in peace.' Rapper Paloalto shared 'Like a Movie' on Instagram and wrote about attending Wheesung's concert when young. 'I have so many memories of him from my 20s. I even attended his first concert after releasing my debut album. This is so shocking and heartbreaking. Thank you for being part of my youth with your music,' he said. The news of Wheesung's death came barely a month after the death of 24-year-old Bloodhounds star Kim Sae Ron, who died by suicide. Kim received significant backlash after a drunk driving incident in May 2022, following which her role on the Netflix show appeared to have been reduced. If you are experiencing feelings of distress, or are struggling to cope, you can speak to the Samaritans, in confidence, on 116 123 (UK and ROI), email jo@ or visit the Samaritans website to find details of your nearest branch. If you are based in the USA, and you or someone you know needs mental health assistance right now, call or text 988, or visit to access online chat from the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. This is a free, confidential crisis hotline that is available to everyone 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you are in another country, you can go to to find a helpline near you.
New York Times
11-03-2025
- Entertainment
- New York Times
Wheesung, a South Korean R&B Singer, Is Found Dead at 43
The South Korean singer-songwriter Wheesung, who popularized R&B music in the country but had documented struggles with drug abuse, was found dead in his home in Seoul on Monday evening, police said. He was 43. Fire department officials found the singer, whose birth name was Choi Whee-sung, in a state of cardiac arrest in his apartment around 6:30 p.m. on Monday. An officer at Seoul Gwangjin Police Station said there was no evidence of a break-in or foul play, and that the authorities were investigating the possibility of a drug overdose. The death is the latest in a string of tragedies to strike the country's booming entertainment industry. Several South Korean celebrities have died including Kim Sae-ron, a young actress who was found dead at her home a few weeks ago. Police ruled Ms. Kim's death a suicide. Mr. Choi, who also went by Realslow, began his career in 2002 with the album 'Like a Movie' and quickly gained critical and popular acclaim, winning several South Korean music awards in the same year. ` He released around a dozen albums and also starred in musicals, playing iconic roles including Zorro and Elvis Presley. Mr. Choi also helped write music for some of South Korea's most successful K-pop bands, including Twice and Super Junior. His career suffered a setback in 2021, after he was found guilty of purchasing and using propofol, a powerful sedative that is a controlled substance in South Korea, on several occasions. He received a suspended sentence of one year in prison, avoiding jail time on the condition that he didn't reoffend. He was also fined 60.5 million won (around $41,000), ordered to perform community service, and undergo drug treatment. With the drug charge, Mr. Choi came under scrutiny from the media and faced harsh public criticism, with some people posting hateful comments online. In South Korea, the social standing of celebrities usually hinges on having a blemish-free reputation and blameless character. Singers in South Korea posted tributes in honor of Wheesung on their social media accounts. 'His music was a big part of my 20s,' the rapper Paloalto wrote on Instagram along with a picture of Mr. Choi's first album cover. 'Thank you for being there with me.' Wheesung had been scheduled to perform on March 15 with the singer KCM in Daegu, a city in the country's south. Tajoy Entertainment, the company that managed Wheesung, did not immediately respond to a request for comment. If you are having thoughts of suicide, call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline or go to for a list of additional resources. In South Korea, call 109 for the health ministry's suicide prevention hotline, or visit the Korean-language site
