Seoul, Mar 11 (UNI) South Korean R&B (rhythm and blues) sensation Wheesung, renowned for his soulful ballads that captivated the hearts of a generation, was found dead at his residence here on Monday.
The 43-year-old singer-songwriter, born Choi Whee-sung, was discovered unresponsive at his residence by emergency services after his mother alerted authorities, according to local media reports.
Authorities have ruled out foul play, though an autopsy has been requested to determine the precise cause of death, according to a report by BBC.
Wheesung’s debut in 2002 marked the arrival of an artist whose soul-stirring vocals and seamless blend of R&B and K-pop set him apart in an era dominated by idol groups.
His success extended beyond his own music as he also worked as a vocal coach and songwriter for K-pop artists. His influence extended internationally, with performances in Hollywood and global K-pop concerts.
He was set to headline a concert with fellow ballad singer KCM this weekend in the city of Daegu. His R&B ballads won praise from veteran Korean singers like Shin Seung-hun and Seo Tae-ji.
Despite his illustrious career, Wheesung’s life was not without its struggles. He faced highly publicised battles with substance abuse, which overshadowed his later years.
In 2021, he received a suspended sentence for the illicit use of propofol, the powerful anesthetic linked to Michael Jackson’s death. His issues with substance abuse became widely known in 2020, when he was found unconscious on two occasions, alongside vials of etomidate, another powerful sedative.
Fellow artists shared tributes to Wheesung after news of his death broke. “Wheesung, let’s sing and make music freely in that place. I won’t forget your pure and clear heart,” singer Yoon Min-soo wrote in a social media post accompanied by a video of him and Wheesung performing a duet. “Let’s meet again someday and sing together,” Yoon wrote.
Rapper Verbal Jint posted a black square on Instagram, accompanied with the caption: “Every moment we shared was an honour, and I’m grateful. You’ve worked so hard, rest in peace, Wheesung.”
