South Korean singer Wheesung, known for his powerful vocals and for popularizing R&B music in his home country, was found dead at his apartment in Seoul on Monday, March 10, 2025. He was 43 years old.
Wheesung, whose real name was Choi Whee-sung, was discovered unresponsive at his home, according to a statement from his agency, Tajoy Entertainment.
“On this day, our artist Wheesung has left us. He was found in a state of cardiac arrest at his home in Seoul and was pronounced dead,” the agency said in their announcement. “The sudden news has deeply saddened the family, fellow artists from TAJOYENT, and all staff who mourn his passing.”
Police officials have stated they do not suspect foul play but have requested an autopsy to determine the exact cause and time of death. According to local reports, Wheesung’s mother, who lives in the same apartment building, found him after he failed to attend a scheduled meeting with his manager.
The singer had been set to perform alongside ballad singer KCM this weekend in the city of Daegu, but the concert has now been canceled following his death.
Wheesung rose to prominence in the early 2000s, launching his career in 2002 and quickly becoming famous throughout South Korea for his exceptional vocal abilities and soulful performances. He won the Best New Artist award at the 2002 Golden Disc Awards and went on to release approximately a dozen albums throughout his career.
His hit songs included “With Me,” “Heartsore Story,” and his cover of Craig David’s “Insomnia,” which showcased his resonant vocals and talent for blending R&B with K-pop. He was widely credited with helping to popularize R&B music in South Korea.
Beyond his own performances, Wheesung established himself as a respected songwriter and producer, creating music for various K-pop acts. In the latter part of his career, he also served as a mentor and vocal coach to other K-pop stars. Additionally, he ventured into acting, appearing in musical theater productions.
However, Wheesung’s career faced significant setbacks due to legal issues related to substance abuse. In 2021, he was convicted of purchasing and using propofol, a powerful anesthetic that was also linked to Michael Jackson’s death. He received a two-year suspended prison sentence, was fined, and was ordered to perform community service and undergo drug treatment.
Prior to his sentencing, in 2020, Wheesung had been found unconscious on two separate occasions in public bathrooms, reportedly with syringes and vials containing etomidate, another sleep-inducing drug.
According to some reports, Wheesung had been struggling with chronic depression, panic disorder, and insomnia in the years leading up to his death, particularly following the deaths of his father and close friends.
News of Wheesung’s passing prompted an outpouring of tributes from fellow artists in the Korean music industry. Singer Yoon Min-soo shared a video of himself performing with Wheesung and wrote: “Wheesung, let’s sing and make music freely in that place. I won’t forget your pure and clear heart. Let’s meet again someday and sing together.”
Rapper Verbal Jint posted on Instagram: “Every moment we shared was an honor, and I’m grateful. You’ve worked so hard, rest in peace, Wheesung.”
Wheesung’s death comes less than a month after the death of South Korean actress Kim Sae-ron, who was found dead at her home in Seoul at the age of 24. Her death was reported as a suicide. The Korean entertainment industry has experienced several similar tragedies in recent years, including the deaths of K-pop artists Goo Hara, Sulli, and SHINee’s Jonghyun.
The pressure and intense public scrutiny faced by celebrities in South Korea have raised concerns about mental health issues within the entertainment industry. In South Korea, a celebrity’s social standing is heavily dependent on maintaining a spotless reputation, and public controversies can have severe consequences for their careers.
Wheesung’s legacy as an influential figure in Korean music remains significant. He was known for his exceptional vocal talent, his role in shaping Korea’s contemporary music landscape, and his contributions to the popularity of R&B music in the country.
