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K-Pop artist Wheesung was found dead in his Seoul home on Monday evening (March 10). He was 43.
The South Korean R&B singer-songwriter reportedly went into cardiac arrest around 6:30 p.m., and fire department officials found the artist, born Choi Whee-sung, dead in his home, per a news report by the New York Times early Tuesday morning (March 11). Law enforcement officials confirmed there’s no evidence to suggest foul play, and investigators are considering the possibility of a drug overdose. CNN affiliate YTN notes that an autopsy has ben requested by police. His family will not hold a funeral at this time “due to their shock and sadness,” the report states.
Wheesung, also known by stage name Realslow, was born in Seoul on February 5, 1982. He launched his career in 2002 with his award-winning album, Like A Movie. Over the course of his decades-long career, Wheesung released albums, starred in musicals, and wrote music for some of the biggest K-pop groups in South Korea, according to the Times, which also notes Wheesung’s previous struggles with substance abuse. That includes a conviction in 2021, which included a suspended prison sentence, a $41,000 fine and an orders to complete community service and enter a drug treatment program.
Wheesung’s death takes place shortly after South Korean actress Kim Sae-ron was found dead at her home in Seoul. Investigators believe the actress died by suicide. She was 24.
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse or mental health, you can reach out to the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988. If you or someone you know is at risk of suicide please call the U.S. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255, text HOME to 741741 or go to SpeakingOfSuicide.com/resources for additional resources.