South Korean singer-songwriter Wheesung, who brought R&B music to the forefront in his country but struggled with drug abuse, was found dead in his Seoul home on Monday evening, police said. He was 43 years old.

Emergency services found Mr. Choi Whee-sung, known as Wheesung, unconscious in his apartment around 6:30 p.m. on Monday. A Seoul Gwangjin Police Station officer stated there was no evidence of a break-in or foul play, and authorities are considering the possibility of a drug overdose as a cause of death.

This sad event adds to a string of tragedies hitting South Korea’s booming entertainment industry. Kim Sae-ron, a young actress, was among others who passed away after being found dead at her residence a few weeks earlier. Her death was ruled as a suicide by the police.

Wheesung, also known as Realslow, launched his career in 2002 with the album “Like a Movie,” quickly achieving critical and popular success and winning multiple South Korean music awards the same year.

Wheesung released about a dozen albums and also acted in musicals, portraying iconic roles such as Zorro and Elvis Presley. He contributed to writing the music for successful K-pop bands like Twice and Super Junior.

Wheesung’s career faced a setback in 2021 after being convicted of buying and using propofol, a powerful sedative classified as a controlled substance in South Korea, on multiple occasions. He received a suspended one-year prison sentence with the condition of not reoffending, a fine of 60.5 million won ($41,000), community service, and mandatory drug treatment.

Following the charges, Wheesung faced media scrutiny and harsh public criticism, with some posting abusive comments online. In South Korea, celebrities’ social standing often relies on a spotless reputation and character.

Fellow South Korean singers paid tribute to Wheesung on social media, with rapper Paloalto stating on Instagram how Wheesung’s music had a significant impact during his 20s, thanking him for being there.

Wheesung was scheduled to perform with singer KCM in Daegu on March 15.

Tajoy Entertainment, Wheesung’s management company, did not respond immediately to a request for comment.

If you are experiencing thoughts of suicide, please call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, or visit SpeakingOfSuicide.com/resources for additional resources.

In South Korea, contact the health ministry’s suicide prevention hotline at 109 or visit the Korean-language site 129.go.kr/109.