Latest news with #TajoyEntertainment
Jordan Times
12-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Jordan Times
South Korean singer Wheesung found dead at 43
The 43-year-old's body was discovered at his home in Seoul (AFP photo) SEOUL — South Korean singer Wheesung was found dead at his residence, his management said on Tuesday, with police reportedly planning to conduct an autopsy to determine the 43-year-old's exact cause of death. Wheesung, who had a string of hits in South Korea including a popular cover of British star Craig David's "Insomnia", was found unconscious in his apartment at 6:29 pm Monday by emergency responders after his mother called for help, local media reported. Police told local media they had found no signs of foul play but warned that "a significant amount of time" had elapsed since he died, with an autopsy requested. "Artist Wheesung has left us," his management agency Tajoy Entertainment said, adding agency staff and colleagues were "in deep sorrow". He was scheduled to perform alongside singer KCM in the southeastern city of Daegu this coming Saturday. In his final message on social media, Wheesung announced the upcoming concert and wrote: "Weight loss completed. See you on March 15". Since his singing debut in 2002, Wheesung had been popular in the South with numerous hit songs, including chart-topping "With Me", and was well-regarded for his soulful performances. But his music career took a hit in 2021 when he was convicted and handed a suspended jail sentence for use of propofol -- a surgical anaesthetic that is sometimes abused recreationally. An overdose of the drug was cited as the cause of pop star Michael Jackson's death in 2009. South Korean singers and fans mourned Wheesung's sudden death. Rapper Verbal Jint paid tribute on Instagram, saying: "Every moment we spent together was an honour and I'm thankful. You've worked so hard. Rest in peace, Wheesung." Another rapper, Paltoalto, thanked the veteran singer for fond memories, mentioning he went to see his first concert. "It's shocking and sad. I'm thankful for the music that accompanied me through the good memories of my youth," he wrote on Instagram. In a heartfelt comment on the artist's last social media post, a fan said: "At your concert on December 23 last year, you told us to expect a lot from you, singing until you're 60. I never thought that would be the last time I hear your voice... Goodbye, my idol, Wheesung." Last month, another South Korean actor, Kim Sae-ron, was found dead at her home aged 24. A former child star, her career came to a sudden halt following a drunk-driving accident in 2022, after which she struggled to land new roles.
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
The National
11-03-2025
- Entertainment
- The National
Revisiting Wheesung's 2018 performance in Abu Dhabi
South Korean R&B singer Wheesung, real name Choi Whee-sung, was found dead on Monday at his home in Seoul. He was 43. Authorities confirmed the cause of death as cardiac arrest, noting that a 'significant amount of time' had passed before his body was discovered. 'Artist Wheesung has left us,' his management agency Tajoy Entertainment confirmed on Tuesday, describing their staff and colleagues as 'in deep sorrow'. Wheesung rose to fame in the 2000s and is widely credited with bringing R&B to South Korea. Wheesung began his career as a back-up dancer before joining the boy band A4. However, after the group released their debut album in 2000, he left due to musical differences. 'The result was not very great as I was not fully prepared when I started performing in a boy band,' he told The National in 2018, ahead of his performance in Abu Dhabi. After leaving A4, he struggled with a pivotal career decision. "During that time, I was lost. I made the biggest decision in my life. It was the decision whether to continue the path in music or not, and I chose to continue without expecting any kind of results." Determined to succeed, Wheesung spent two years honing his vocals before debuting as a solo artist in 2002 with Like A Movie. The album was well-received and praised by major K-pop figures, including Seo Taiji of Seo Taiji and the Boys. 'I just poured everything that I could do into that album, and I still work today as I did for my debut album," he reflected. "I could only assume that the timing was right, and my voice and expression worked well with the music industry at that time.' Wheesung became a beloved figure in South Korea's R&B scene, known for his soulful performances and chart-toppers such as With Me and his popular cover of Craig David's Insomnia. In 2018, he made his Middle East debut with a small performance at the National Theatre in Abu Dhabi as part of the Korea Festival. Dressed in all white, he played some of his biggest hits in front of devoted fans. As K-pop's global influence continued to grow, Wheesung also shared his thoughts with The National on the future of the musical genre and advice for new artists. "I would be worried that it will be very difficult to survive in the industry if they don't have an answer to 'How can I be differentiated from others?'" he said. 'K-pop idol groups these days hear a lot of comments saying that it's hard to find out who's who, and I also feel a little sad that so many groups with similar concepts are being introduced." Until his death, Wheesung had released six studio albums, six EPs and nine singles – most in the R&B genre. "Many of my fans love my ballad songs, but I prefer R&B songs that are more rhythmical or moody with slow tempo," he had previously told The National. "I've been trying different genres as I had an aspiration to produce music not only for myself but also for other artists." Rapper Verbal Jint was among those paying respects to the late singer. He uploaded a black box to his Instagram. 'Every moment we shared was an honour, and I'm grateful. You've worked so hard, rest in peace, Wheesung,' he wrote. Singer Yoon Min-soo also paid tribute by sharing a video of the two singing together. He captioned the post: 'Wheesung, let's sing and make music freely in that place. I won't forget your pure and clear heart.' Rapper Paloalto also commented on his passing: 'It's shocking and sad. I'm thankful for the music that accompanied me through the good memories of my youth." 2AM's Lee Chang-min wrote: "He was an artist I really wanted to resemble. I will remember him. Rest in peace."
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.
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.
