TRIGGER WARNING: This article contains information about suicide or self-harm.
A rising star of the Korean trot music industry, HAESOO, passed away at the age of 29 after being reportedly found dead in her hotel room. She was scheduled to perform at a festival on May 20, but her passing led the organizers to cancel her appearance.
The reason for her demise hasn’t been revealed yet. But, police have stated that they did not suspect foul play as the note she left behind indicates her intention to end her life—the news of her passing shocked many fans and fellow artists. Many took to social media to offer their condolences to her family and friends.
YTN reported that HAESOO’s body was found in her hotel room, but the police haven’t released her identity. She was scheduled to perform at the Gwanjumyeon People’s Day festival in Wanju Gun, Jeollabuk-do, on May 20. The singer’s passing came to light when a South Korean media outlet reported on May 15, 2023, that they received calls from the organizers stating that they won’t be able to attend the scheduled event as she had passed away.
The news about her passing shook the entire K-pop world, and fans from all over the globe paid their respects to the star, who is regarded as an up-and-coming artist in the industry. She was known for her impeccable talents that flourished during her performances at KBS 2TV’s Immortal Songs. The passing of the young talent has shaken her fans to the core, and they are in mourning.
HAESOO’s death has brought to light that artists in the entertainment world face immense pressure and stress. Several South Korean entertainment industry stars have died of suicide or committed self-harm recently. This has sparked a discussion among the general public about the need for the entertainment industry and its toxic fans to reassess their behavior.
Haesoo’s representative has requested privacy during this difficult time and asked people to refrain from spreading malicious reporting and rumors. They also request that people respect the star’s wishes to be laid to rest peacefully.
In an attempt to bring back positivity in the industry, some of the biggest names have come out in support of the singer’s family and friends. They are planning a memorial service for the late singer and hope her family finds comfort during this time. The cause of her death has not been disclosed as the investigation is ongoing. The incident is the latest in a string of celebrity deaths this year. The passing of Moonbin from the popular group ASTRO earlier this month also stunned fans and the industry. It is not the first time that a member of a popular K-pop act has committed suicide. The trend is worrying as it might lead to more such cases.