Veteran Korean singer Wheesung passes away at 43

Renowned K-pop singer-songwriter Choi Wheesung, widely recognised by his stage name Wheesung, was discovered deceased at his residence in Seoul, South Korea, last night, as confirmed by local authorities.

The exact cause of his passing remains undetermined. According to Seoul police, a significant period had elapsed before his body was found, but there were no indications of foul play at the scene.

On Monday night, his agency, Tajoy Entertainment, announced, "The artiste Wheesung has left us. He was found in cardiac arrest at his residence and was later pronounced dead." The company added that fellow artistes and staff members were deeply mourning his loss.

Famed for his powerful voice and heartfelt ballads, Wheesung made his debut in 2002 with the acclaimed R&B album "Like a Movie". Over the years, he gained widespread fame by experimenting with various genres, seamlessly blending R&B, pop, and hip-hop. 

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However, his career suffered a major setback in 2021 when he was convicted of repeatedly using the potent anesthetic propofol without a prescription. He was sentenced to one year in prison, with the term suspended for two years. Although he continued performing afterward, his popularity declined, and he struggled to regain his former success.

As reported by The Korea Times, Wheesung was found unconscious in his apartment in Seoul's northern Gwangjin-gu district at 6:29pm. Emergency responders arrived after his mother placed an urgent call for assistance.

Earlier that day, the singer was supposed to meet his manager but failed to appear and was unreachable. Concerned, his mother—who lived in the same building—went to check on him and discovered him unresponsive.