Skip to content
Search

Latest Stories

K Pop Star Wheesung, 43, found dead; police suspect drug overdose

Fans and fellow artists mourn the sudden loss of the R&B icon as authorities urge respect for his family's privacy.

K Pop Star Wheesung, 43, found dead; police  suspect drug overdose

Fans leave heartfelt tributes for late K-pop singer Wheesung as the music world mourns his sudden passing.

Instagram/whee_sungz

South Korean singer-songwriter Wheesung, 43, was found dead at his home in northern Seoul on March 10. His mother, who lives in the same apartment complex, reportedly found him unresponsive and called for emergency help. Responders arrived at 6:29 p.m. KST, but he was already in cardiac arrest. Authorities pronounced him dead at the scene.

Police are investigating the cause of death. While no foul play is suspected, the possibility of a drug overdose is being considered. Wheesung had previously faced legal issues over substance abuse. In 2021, he was given a suspended prison sentence for repeatedly using propofol, an anaesthetic often misused as a recreational drug.


Mourners pay their respects to K-pop star Wheesung following news of his untimely death at 43.4oInstagram/whee_sungz

Wheesung’s agency, Tajoy Entertainment, confirmed his passing and released a statement expressing deep sorrow. “It is with a heavy heart that we announce the sudden loss of our artist Wheesung. His family and our team are devastated. We kindly ask the public to avoid spreading unverified information and give the family privacy during this difficult time.”

Wheesung, whose full name was Choi Whee-sung, made his debut in 2002. Known for his powerful vocals and emotional ballads, he quickly rose to fame with songs like With Me, Insomnia, and Can’t We. His unique voice and heartfelt performances earned him a loyal fan base. Despite his earlier success, his career faced setbacks due to personal struggles in recent years.

He had been preparing for an upcoming concert with fellow singer KCM, scheduled for March 15 in Daegu. The news of his death has left fans, colleagues, and the Korean music industry in mourning.

As investigations continue, friends, fans, and fellow artists are remembering Wheesung not just for his music, but for his impact on the R&B and ballad scene in South Korea. His passing has prompted an outpouring of grief and condolences, with many expressing hope that he will be remembered for his contributions rather than his struggles.

More For You

Chetan Bhagat

Chetan Bhagat says some Bollywood actors cannot enjoy a meal unless photographers spot them

Getty Images

Author Chetan Bhagat says the obsession with fame is harming Bollywood actors' mental health

Highlights:

  • Bhagat says some stars can’t enjoy meals if not photographed.
  • Author calls Bollywood a “drug house of fame.”
  • He left movies to focus on writing and moved to Dubai.
  • Sees industry as insecure, with friendships mostly transactional.
  • Believes creating stories gives him more satisfaction than films.

Chetan Bhagat says fame in Bollywood can take a serious toll on mental health. The bestselling author, whose novels like 3 Idiots and Kai Po Che! became major films, explained that many actors and directors struggle when their work doesn’t succeed. “There are actors who, when going to a restaurant, if they aren’t recognised, don’t enjoy the meal. They wonder, ‘No one came to click photos?’ Can you imagine what a sick life that is?” he said.

Bhagat added that the pressure of attention and constant public scrutiny can worsen insecurity. He recalled seeing stars fade over time, their mental health affected by the highs and lows of fame.

Keep ReadingShow less