Korean R&B Icon Wheesung Laid to Rest Amidst Tears and Farewell

KO YONG-CHUL Reporter

korocamia@naver.com | 2025-03-17 17:35:09

SEOUL, South Korea – Renowned Korean R&B singer Wheesung (Choi Whee-sung), 43, was laid to rest on March 16th, 2025, in a solemn ceremony at Samsung Seoul Hospital. Family, friends, fellow artists, and devoted fans gathered to bid a final farewell to the beloved musician, whose sudden passing on March 10th has left the Korean music scene in mourning.

Despite the somber atmosphere and persistent rain, over 130 attendees filled the funeral hall. The service commenced with a heartfelt tribute by Chuplex (Sangchu) of hip-hop duo Mighty Mouth, who chronicled Wheesung's illustrious career as a singer and producer. "He was a man devoted entirely to music," Chuplex recounted, "music was his life."

Wheesung's younger brother, Choi Hyuk-sung, expressed gratitude to those who had paid their respects. "Seeing the outpouring of love from fans and colleagues these past two days," he shared, "I realized how deeply loved my brother was." He emphasized that while Wheesung's physical presence was gone, "his music and spirit will live on eternally."

Actress Kim Na-woon delivered a poignant eulogy, recalling her close bond with Wheesung, who sang at her wedding in 2005. She lamented the "malicious rumors" surrounding his death, urging attendees to remember Wheesung as "a beautiful and eternal artist."

The service featured a moving video montage of Wheesung's career highlights, culminating in his song "The Day We Met Again," which elicited tears from mourners. Following the ceremony, fellow singers Ha Dong-kyun and Chuplex, along with Wheesung's family, carried the coffin, while fans lined the streets to pay their final respects.

Wheesung, who debuted in 2002 with the album <Like A Movie>, was one of the most celebrated R&B singers in Korea. His powerful vocals and emotional delivery produced a string of hits, including "Can't I," "Incurable Disease," "Love is Delicious," and "Thought of Marriage."

His sudden death has shocked the Korean entertainment industry and his fans. Just days before his death it was announced that Wheesung was scheduled to perform a duo concert with fellow singer KCM. The concert was scheduled to take place on March 15th at the EXCO Auditorium in Daegu. Wheesung had also recently held a birthday fan meeting.

Wheesung was laid to rest at Gwangneung Memorial Park, where he will remain forever in the hearts of those who loved his music.

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