Wheesung obit

Wheesung Dies: South Korean R&B Singer Was 43

 

He was not on the list.

Wheesung, the hit-making South Korean K-pop star and R&B singer, was found dead in his home in Seoul on Monday evening, local law enforcement said. He was 43.

His death was confirmed by his agency, Tajoy Entertainment. “The artist Wheesung has left us,” the agency said in a statement. “He was found in cardiac arrest at his residence and was later pronounced dead. This sudden loss has left his family, fellow artists and our entire team in deep sorrow.”

Police do not suspect foul play.

Born Choi Whee-sung, Wheesung launched he career with the hit 2002 album Like a Movie. Renowned for his strong vocals, songwriting and skills as a producer, Wheesung recorded more than 10 albums and scored numerous hits over the years since his debut, often crossing or blending genres of pop, hip-hop and R&B. Among his most popular songs were “Can’t You” and “Insomnia.”

His career was dealt a blow in 2021 when he was convicted of illegally purchasing and using the sedative propofol. A one-year prison sentence was suspended, but he was fined the equivalent of about $41,000, ordered to perform community service and undergo a drug treatment program. On two separate occasions a year before his sentencing, Wheesung, who was candid about his issues with mental health including chronic depression, was found on unconscious, reportedly from injecting the anesthetic etomidate.

Despite the career setbacks and personal issues, Wheesung continued performing, with a now-canceled concert with the singer KCM previously scheduled for this week.