Popular South Korean singer Wheesung has died.
The K-pop sensation — real name Choi Whee-sung — was discovered dead in his Gwangjin-gu, Seoul, home around 6:30 p.m. on Monday, March 10, The New York Times confirmed.
Fire officials told the outlet that Wheesung, who struggled with drug abuse, was in a state of cardiac arrest when he was found.
The Korea Herald, which broke the news about his sudden passing, reported that his mother was the one who called emergency services after finding her son.
Law enforcement suspects the star had been dead for a significant amount of time, according to the outlet, which also reported that police are investigating his cause of death and requested an autopsy.
Law enforcement also reportedly confirmed that there were no signs of foul play or forced entry into his home, seemingly ruling out homicide as a possible cause for Wheesung’s death.
He was 43.
Wheesung was gearing up for “The Story,” a joint concert with singer KCM in Daegu, on Saturday; however, following news of his passing, the show has been canceled.
Wheesung is credited for blending R&B with K-pop.
He came on the scene in 2002 with his single “Can’t We?” Wheesung released several hits since his debut, including “With Me,” “The Day We Met Again,” “Insomnia” and “Even Thought of Marriage.”
The singer won several awards throughout his career and was widely considered to be one of Korea’s best R&B vocalists.
In 2002, Wheesung took home Best New Male Artist at the Golden Disc Awards. The following year, he graduated to winning the Best Male Artist award at the Mnet Music Video Festival, and in 2004 and 2005, he scored Artist of the Year at the KBS Music Awards.
While the singer continued to soar in his career, he struggled in his personal life.
Wheesung was indicted on charges of illegal use of propofol in 2019. He was later discovered unconscious in a public bathroom after using etomidate, another anesthetic, according to The Korea Herald.
Following the restroom incident, his agency at the time, Real Slow Company, released a statement claiming the star was going through “an incredibly difficult period due to the sudden passing of his father and close friends.”
The agency also alleged that Wheesung suffered from depression and panic disorder, adding he was “receiving psychiatric treatment.”
Tributes poured in after the news of his passing.
“Thank you for your amazing music that had a great impact on my life. May you rest in peace,” rapper Changmo shared on social media.
Paloalto, also a rapper, wrote, “I have so many memories of him from my 20s. I even attended his first concert after releasing my debut album. This is so shocking and heartbreaking. Thank you for being part of my youth with your music.”
