The entertainment industry, at least in terms of the K-pop and Korean drama realms, is glamorous and captivating.
But the other side of this creative coin is a source of pressure and scrutiny for many artists struggling to stay afloat mentally.
The deaths of several gifted people, Moonbin and Kim Mi Soo are among them; Sulli is another victim of stardom gone wrong.
It also strongly reminds the victims of success based on merit in such harsh business. By remembering these artists, we honor their legacy and draw attention to the important issues regarding mental health and how performers are treated within the field.
Moonbin
Moonbin was a member of the famous K-pop group ASTRO. With unmatched dance moves and scintillating stage presence, he was a dancer par excellence.
In April 2023, he sadly died in what was reported as a suspected suicide — bringing to light the immense pressure idols face in the entertainment industry.
Kim Mi Soo
Kim Mi Soo is a 29-year-old actress famous for dramas such as "Hi Bye, Mama!" and "Snowdrop." She died aged 31 in January 2022.
Her passing was announced in a statement on social media, which aimed to explain the sudden and painful loss that fans were left with after her death, however it failed to elaborate further on the cause of death.
Song Yu Jung
Song Yu Jung was a model-turned-actress known for dramas like "School 2017" and "Make Your Wish." In January of 2021, she passed on at the age of 26. Her untimely passing was made even sadder as the cause of her death wasn't revealed.
Park Ji Hoon
Park Ji Hoon was an actor appearing in "Chicago Typewriter." The now-31-year-old died from stomach cancer in May 2020. His fight against the disease and his subsequent death raised awareness of the health problems endured by so many others in the industry.
Go Soo Jung
Go Soo Jung was an Actress recognized for a role in the drama of Goblin. She died in February 2020, aged 24, following a terminal illness - but no further details were provided. Even in death, her fans mourned the great loss.
Cha In Ha
Cha In Ha starred in such dramas as "Clean With Passion For Now" and "The Banker." He died in December 2019, aged 27, and his death was ruled a suspected suicide. His death brought issues of mental health and young actors to the forefront.
Sulli
Sulli is a former member of girl group f(x) and actress in To The Beautiful You. In October 2019, this 25 year old took her own life. Pending the background of Sulli being a victim of cyberbullying, her passing is a reflection for our society at large as well.
Jonghyun
Jonghyun is a member of the K-pop group SHINee, songwriter and an amazing vocalist. The 27-year-old took his own life in December of 2017. The pressures and mental health issues that idol K-pop have remained apparent through his death.
Jeon Mi-seon
Jeon Mi-seon is an actress who is best known for the film "Memories of Murder" and drama series such as, "Moon Embracing the Sun." She died due to apparent suicide at age 48.
Jang Ja-yeon
Jang Ja-yeon was famous from the mass series, "Boys Over Flowers." In March 2009 she committed suicide (29 years). Her death resulted in a public outcry and an investigation into the abuse and exploitation of actresses by powerful men in the entertainment industry.
Read more: Top 20 Hot Korean Actors with the Best Abs
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This article was written by:
Rovelyn Barba