Popular singer found dead at home
South Korean singer Wheesung was found dead at his residence, his management confirmed on Tuesday. Police are reportedly planning to conduct an autopsy to determine the 43-year-old’s exact cause of death.
Wheesung, known for several hit songs in South Korea, including his popular cover of Craig David’s Insomnia, was found unconscious in his apartment at 6:29 p.m. on Monday. Emergency responders arrived after his mother called for help, local media reported.
Authorities told local media there were no signs of foul play but noted that “a significant amount of time” had passed since his death, leading to an autopsy request.
“Artist Wheesung has left us,” his management agency, Tajoy Entertainment, stated, adding that staff and colleagues were “in deep sorrow.”
He was set to perform alongside singer KCM in the southeastern city of Daegu on Saturday.
In his final social media post, Wheesung shared news of the upcoming concert, writing: “Weight loss completed. See you on March 15.”
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Since his debut in 2002, Wheesung gained popularity with numerous hits, including the chart-topping With Me, and was widely recognized for his soulful performances.
However, his career suffered a setback in 2021 when he was convicted and given a suspended jail sentence for using propofol, a surgical anesthetic that has been misused recreationally. The drug was also linked to the death of pop icon Michael Jackson in 2009.
Fans and fellow artists mourned his sudden passing. A fan left a heartfelt comment on his last social media post, recalling his words at a December concert: “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.”
Rapper Verbal Jint paid tribute on Instagram, writing: “Every moment we spent together was an honour and I’m thankful. You’ve worked so hard. Rest in peace, Wheesung.”
Another rapper, Paloalto, expressed his sadness, remembering Wheesung’s impact on his early years: “It’s shocking and sad. I’m thankful for the music that accompanied me through the good memories of my youth.”
His passing follows the recent death of South Korean actor Kim Sae-ron, who was found dead at her home last month at the age of 24. The former child star struggled to revive her career following a drunk-driving accident in 2022.
