K-pop singer Wheesung, 43, was found dead in his Seoul home on March 10, triggering an uproar of tributes from fans and the music world. A family member made the report to the authorities at 6:29 PM KST, resulting in the heartbreaking discovery.
The Joongang reported that Wheesung was discovered in cardiac arrest. Although the police have not yet verified the cause of death, preliminary investigations indicate the potential for suicide or an overdose. There were no signs of criminal activity at the scene, and investigations are continuing.
Wheesung’s agency issued a statement of deep regret: “We are deeply saddened to deliver such heartbreaking and tragic news.”. Our artist Wheesung sadly passed away on March 10th. He was discovered in cardiac arrest in his Seoul residence and was subsequently declared dead.” The agency called for discretion during this time from the family and asked the public to refrain from spreading unsubstantiated rumors. “We are sincerely heartbroken to deliver such tragic news to fans who have consistently demonstrated Wheesung his unrelenting love and devotion.”
Born Choi, Wheesung was one of Korea’s best-known musicians, famous for his balladic and R&B ballads, such as “Insomnia” (2009) and “Heartsore Story” (2011). Only a week before he died, he had unveiled plans for a duet concert with ballad singer KCM in Daegu on March 15, writing on social media, “Diet over. See you on March 15.”
In 2021, Wheesung was given a two-year suspended sentence for illegal use of propofol after being convicted of receiving several prescriptions of the drug in 2019. He was also found unconscious in 2020 from an etomidate overdose, another anesthetic.
As investigations into the details of his death continue—namely whether or not he left a note—fans and the public are still in shock, waiting for more information on this tragic incident.
