South Korean Singer Wheesung Found Dead at 43

South Korean singer Wheesung, known for his emotional ballads, was found dead at his home in Seoul on Monday. He was 43.

Authorities confirmed that he suffered cardiac arrest and had been deceased for some time before his body was discovered. They ruled out foul play.

Wheesung, whose real name was Choi Whee-sung, debuted in 2002 and became one of Korea’s most beloved R&B singers. His soulful voice and heartfelt ballads won him widespread recognition. He also mentored and wrote songs for K-pop artists, contributing to the industry behind the scenes.

The singer was set to perform at a concert in Daegu this weekend.

However, Wheesung had also faced personal struggles. In 2021, he received a suspended sentence for abusing propofol, a powerful anesthetic. In 2020, he was found unconscious twice due to the use of sleep-inducing drugs.

Following the news of his passing, fellow artists paid tribute. Singer Yoon Min-soo shared a heartfelt message, saying, “Let’s sing freely in that place. I won’t forget your pure heart.” Rapper Verbal Jint also honored him, writing, “You’ve worked so hard. Rest in peace, Wheesung.”

His passing marks a great loss to the Korean music industry.