Wheesung, the South Korean singer, was discovered deceased at his residence in Seoul on Monday. The individual was 43 years old.
Authorities reported that the singer was discovered in a state of cardiac arrest, noting that a “significant amount of time” elapsed before his body was found.
Authorities observed that the scene showed no indications of foul play.
Choi Whee-sung, known professionally as Wheesung, burst onto the music scene in 2002 and rapidly gained recognition for his powerful and emotive singing abilities. His popularity soared in the 2000s, earning him recognition for his significant role in bringing R&B to the forefront of the South Korean music scene.
Throughout his career, Wheesung has carved out a significant role as a mentor and vocal coach for K-pop artists, contributing his expertise and penning songs for several of them. He worked alongside numerous artists and took the stage at K-pop concerts globally, including notable performances in Hollywood.
This weekend, a concert featuring ballad singer KCM was set to take place in Daegu.
His R&B ballads have garnered acclaim from established Korean artists such as Shin Seung-hun and Seo Tae-ji.
Wheesung has often found himself at the centre of controversy.
In 2021, he received a two-year suspended sentence for his misuse of propofol, a potent anaesthetic that was also linked to the death of Michael Jackson.
In March and April 2020, Wheesung was discovered unconscious on two separate occasions, accompanied by syringes and vials of etomidate, a sleep-inducing substance akin to propofol.
After Wheesung’s passing, fellow artists have come forward to express their heartfelt tributes.
“Wheesung, let us gather and create music freely in that space.” “I won’t forget your pure and clear heart,” singer Yoon Min-soo expressed in a heartfelt social media post, sharing a video of his duet performance with Wheesung.
Yoon desired a future reunion, stating, “Let’s meet again someday and sing together.”
Rapper Verbal Jint took to Instagram to share a black square, accompanied by a heartfelt caption: “Every moment we shared was an honour, and I’m grateful.” Wheesung, your dedication and effort have been remarkable. May you find peace now.
