Korean R&B vocalist Wheesung who rose to prominence in the early 2000s and helped shape Korea‘s contemporary music landscape with his soulful ballads and exceptional vocal prowess, was found dead Monday at his apartment in Seoul’s Gwangjin District. He was 43.
His agency, Tajoy Entertainment, confirmed his death in a statement, saying “Wheesung has left us. He was found in cardiac arrest at his home in Seoul and was pronounced deceased.” Police have requested an autopsy from the National Forensic Service to determine the cause of death, noting there were no signs of forced entry or foul play.
Born Choi Whee-sung, the artist also performed under the name Realslow. Before launching an influential solo career, Wheesung made his industry debut in 1999 as a member of the four-piece group A4. His 2002 solo debut album “Like a Movie” marked the arrival of a distinctive voice in Korean music, with his title track “Can’t You” propelling him to immediate chart success. His hits also included a cover of Craig David’s “Insomnia.”