R&B Singer Hwiseong Passes Away at 43; Police Investigating Possible Drug Overdose

Hwiseong, a leading figure in Korean R&B whose real name is Choi Hwiseong, was found unresponsive at his home in Seoul on March 10 and died at the age of 43. By 6:29 p.m. on Monday local time, emergency responders arrived at his apartment following a call from his mother, but he had already lost consciousness. His agency, Taejo Entertainment, issued a statement saying, “Artist Hwiseong has left us,” and added that “employees and colleagues are deeply saddened.” Although no signs of intrusion or violence were found, the police requested an autopsy, noting that “a considerable amount of time had passed” since the incident. Authorities are investigating the possibility of drug overdose. In 2021, Hwiseong was sentenced to a one-year suspended prison term, along with a fine, community service, and mandatory drug treatment, for purchasing and using propofol, a medical anesthetic that is also believed to have caused Michael Jackson’s death and is classified as a controlled substance in Korea. Since debuting in 2002 with “Like a Movie,” Hwiseong produced numerous hit songs, including chart-toppers such as “With Me” (2004), “Heartsoar Story” (2011), and his cover of Craig David’s “Insomnia” (2009). Before enlisting in the military in 2011, he was renowned in Korea’s music industry for his soulful vocals and unique style. After his military service, he pursued acting in stage productions such as the musicals “Jo-ro” and “All Shook Up,” in addition to continuing his music career. He also composed songs for other K-POP artists like TWICE and SUPER JUNIOR. On December 23 of last year, Hwiseong announced at a concert that he intended to keep singing until the age of 60, and he was scheduled to perform with singer KCM in Daegu on Saturday, March 15. His last social media post promoting this performance read, “Weight loss complete. See you on March 15.” In response to Hwiseong’s sudden death, rapper Verbal Jint wrote on Instagram, “Every moment we spent together was an honor and a source of gratitude. You worked incredibly hard. Rest in peace,” while rapper Palto Alto posted, “I’m grateful for the music that shared wonderful memories of youth; it’s shocking and sad.”