The South Korean singer Wheesung has passed away at the age of 43, with police planning to conduct an autopsy to determine the cause of his death.
Found unconscious in his apartment on Monday night, emergency responders were called by his mother, according to local media reports.
Authorities have confirmed no signs of foul play but noted that a considerable amount of time has passed since his death, leading to the request for an autopsy.
“Artist Wheesung has left us,” stated his management agency, Tajoy Entertainment, expressing their deep sorrow over the loss.
Scheduled to perform with singer KCM in Daegu this weekend, Wheesung’s final social media message announced his weight loss completion and invited fans to see him on March 15.
Since his debut in 2002, Wheesung, whose real name was Choi Whee-sung, enjoyed numerous hits in South Korea, including the chart-topping hit “With Me,” and was known for his soulful performances.
However, his music career was marred in 2021 when he was convicted of using propofol, a surgical anesthetic sometimes used recreationally, leading to a suspended jail sentence.
An overdose of propofol was cited as the cause of pop star Michael Jackson’s death in 2009.
South Korean rapper VerbalJint paid tribute, saying every moment spent with Wheesung was an honor and expressed gratitude for his hard work. Rapper Paloalto thanked Wheesung for creating music that accompanied him through fond memories of his youth.
South Korea’s entertainment industry has been under scrutiny due to many young stars dying at a young age, highlighting issues related to mental health and the intense pressures of K-pop fame.
South Korea’s entertainment industry has faced criticism for the high number of celebrities dying at young ages, a concern accentuated by the tight control and pressure on K-pop stars, who are often signed by agencies at a young age and subject to rigorous training.
The recent deaths of South Korean actor Kim Sae-ron, actor Song Jae-lim, and K-pop star Moonbin, among others, have brought attention to these issues.
