South Korean singer-producer Wheesung dies at 43
Wheesung. Image: Instagram/@whee_sungz
Wheesung, a South Korean solo artist best known for his string of R&B hits, has died. He was 43 years old.
The singer was found collapsed at an apartment in Gwangjin District in Seoul on Monday, March 10, at around 6:29 p.m., South Korean time. The fire authorities went to the apartment after receiving a call from his family, per a report from Korean media outlet SpoTV News.
Emergency responders went to the scene until he was eventually pronounced dead. There were no signs of foul play, according to authorities.
Wheesung’s agency Tajoy Entertainment confirmed his death in a statement on the same day, saying he was found in a “state of cardiac arrest.”
“This is Tajoy Entertainment, the agency of singer Wheesung. We are deeply sorry to share such heartbreaking and tragic news. On March 10, our beloved artist Wheesung passed away. He was found in a state of cardiac arrest at his home in Seoul and was subsequently pronounced deceased,” it said per a Soompi translation.
Tajoy said the passing of Wheesung brought “profound grief” to his family, fellow artists, and its staff. It also appealed to the public to refrain from spreading “unverified and speculative reports” surrounding his death.
“It pains us deeply to deliver this devastating news to the fans who have always supported and loved Wheesung. We ask that you keep him in your thoughts and prayers so that he may rest peacefully,” it said.
“During this difficult time, we sincerely ask for restraint from unverified rumors or speculative reports out of respect for his bereaved family,” Tajoy continued.
The label said funeral arrangements will be given in a separate announcement.
Born Choi Whee-sung, he started his entertainment career as a member of the dance troupe ING in 1997. He dabbled into music two years later where he joined music groups before making a name for himself as a solo artist.
Wheesung is best known for his songs “Incurable Disease,” “With Me,” “I Thought of Marriage,” and the Korean version of “Insomnia.” He also served as a songwriter and composer for multiple artists including SE7EN, Jang Nara, Gummy, Lee Hyori, SHINee, TVXQ!, and Ailee, among others.
