South Korean Singer Wheesung Passes Away at 43
South Korean R&B singer Wheesung was found dead at his home in Seoul on Monday at the age of 43.
Authorities reported that he was discovered in a state of cardiac arrest, with a considerable amount of time having passed before his body was found. However, no signs of foul play were detected at the scene.
A Respected Voice in R&B
Born Choi Whee-sung, he made his debut in 2002 and quickly rose to prominence with his signature soulful vocals. A defining figure in South Korea’s 2000s music scene, Wheesung played a key role in bringing R&B into the mainstream.
Over the years, he expanded his influence beyond performing, mentoring K-pop artists and composing songs for them. He also collaborated with many musicians and took part in global K-pop concerts, including performances in Hollywood.
He was scheduled to perform this weekend in Daegu alongside ballad singer KCM.
Acclaimed but Controversial Career
Wheesung’s artistry earned him praise from industry veterans like Shin Seung-hun and Seo Tae-ji. However, his career was not without controversy.
In 2021, he received a two-year suspended sentence for abusing propofol, a potent anesthetic also linked to Michael Jackson’s death.
In 2020, he was found unconscious twice in a short span, with syringes and vials of etomidate, a drug similar to propofol, discovered nearby.
Tributes from Fellow Artists
Following the news of his passing, tributes poured in from fellow musicians.
Singer Yoon Min-soo shared a video of their duet, writing:
"Wheesung, let’s sing and create music freely wherever you are. I will never forget your pure and sincere heart. Let’s meet again someday and sing together."
Rapper Verbal Jint posted a black square on Instagram, captioned:
"Every moment we shared was an honor, and I’m truly grateful. You’ve worked so hard. Rest in peace, Wheesung."
His passing marks the loss of a major figure in South Korea’s music industry, leaving behind a legacy that shaped an entire generation of R&B and K-pop artists.
