South Korea’s music scene has been shaken by the sudden passing of R&B legend Wheesung, who was found deceased in his Seoul apartment on March 10, 2025.
The 43-year-old, born Choi Whee-sung, was discovered after his mother grew concerned when he missed a scheduled meeting with his manager.
Emergency responders arrived at his Gwangjin District residence, though authorities have ruled out foul play for the time being. An autopsy has been ordered to ascertain the exact cause of his death.
Wheesung’s impact on South Korea’s music industry is profound, with his career spanning over two decades. He initially rose to fame as part of the group A4 in 1999, but it was his solo career that cemented his place as an R&B powerhouse.
His 2002 debut album, Like a Movie, showcased his unique blend of smooth vocals and heartfelt storytelling, earning him a loyal fanbase and acclaim.
Over the years, Wheesung produced iconic hits like With Me, Insomnia, and Even Though I Was In Love, which solidified his reputation as a master of emotional ballads.
He was also a talented songwriter and producer, contributing to the works of notable K-pop acts, including Ailee, TWICE, Younha, and T-ara. His ability to infuse raw emotion into his music made him a respected figure in the industry.
Despite his professional success, Wheesung’s later years were marred by personal challenges. He faced legal issues related to his misuse of propofol, a powerful anesthetic, leading to a suspended sentence in 2021 for habitual drug abuse. These struggles, coupled with ongoing concerns about his mental health, cast a shadow over his career.
His unexpected death has sparked an outpouring of grief from both fans and fellow musicians. Rapper Changmo expressed how Wheesung’s music had shaped his own artistic journey, while R&B artist Yoon Min-soo remembered Wheesung for his kind heart, sharing his hope to one day perform together.
Wheesung’s planned concert in Daegu, where he was set to perform with KCM, has been canceled, leaving a palpable void in the music community.
As the industry mourns his loss, the conversation around the pressures of fame and mental health in the entertainment world has gained renewed urgency, reflecting the complex and often hidden struggles that even the brightest stars face.
