Wheesung (real name Choi Wheesung) tragically passed away. His funeral will be temporarily delayed until the cause of death is confirmed.
According to News 1 on Tuesday, Wheesung’s memorial service will be put on hold until an official cause of death is determined. The Gwangjin Police Department in Seoul has requested an autopsy from the National Forensic Service (NFS) to investigate the circumstances surrounding his death.
Once the cause is confirmed, the funeral arrangements will be made, and his agency, Tajoy Entertainment, is expected to issue an official statement.
On Monday, the Gwangjin Police reported that Wheesung was found unconscious at his apartment in the Gwangjin district of Seoul. Emergency services responded after receiving a call from his family, and authorities are currently investigating the exact cause of death.
After the news broke, Tajoy Entertainment, Wheesung’s agency, said, “We are deeply saddened to inform you that our artist Wheesung has passed away. He was found in cardiac arrest at his home in Seoul and was pronounced dead at the scene.”
The agency continued, “This sudden loss has deeply saddened Wheesung’s family, fellow artists, and all of us at Tajoy Entertainment. We are heartbroken to share this devastating news with his fans, who have given him unwavering support and love. We ask that you keep him in your thoughts and prayers.”
Tajoy Entertainment also added, “Details regarding funeral arrangements will be shared separately. We kindly ask that you refrain from spreading unverified rumors or speculative reports out of respect for the grieving family.”
Wheesung was scheduled to perform a joint concert titled The Story with fellow artist KCM on Saturday, March 15, at the Daegu EXCO Auditorium. However, tragic news forced the concert to be officially canceled.
On Wednesday, just days before his passing, Wheesung posted a selfie on Instagram, writing, “Diet’s over. See you on March 15. ” This post generated excitement among fans for the upcoming performance. The news of his sudden death, coming so shortly after this post, has left many in shock.
After his passing, numerous artists, including Harisu, Changmo, San E, Paloalto, Yoon Min Soo, and Kim Chang Yeol, expressed their sorrow and paid tribute to the late singer.
Born in February 1982, Wheesung debuted in 2002 with his first full-length album Like A Movie. He quickly gained popularity with hit songs like “Can’t We,” “Incurable Disease,” “I Even Thought About Marriage,” and “A Heartbreaking Story.” Wheesung is widely recognized for popularizing R&B music in South Korea.
In December 2019, Wheesung faced legal troubles for using the narcotic sleep anesthetic propofol on multiple occasions. In 2020, he was found unconscious in a restroom at a building in Songpa District, Seoul, after administering the drug. He was sentenced to one year with a two-year suspension, 40 hours of community service, and 40 hours of drug treatment counseling. Despite these legal challenges, Wheesung pursued his music career and stayed connected with his fans through live performances and concerts.