Fans all over the world are in mourning over Lee Hee Chul, a top broadcaster and influencer, who suddenly passed away. Singer-songwriter Lee died on Jan. 7 from a heart attack but has only been reported (Jan. 8).
A week before his death, Lee was admitted to the hospital for a chronic illness.
His family, friends, and fans, who had recognized him as a visual director for the girl group CLASS:y, and he featured on shows like KBS2's "Mr. Househusband Season 2," were shocked to hear this news. He was also a successful restauranteur and photographer.
Lee's death has brought renewed attention to an Instagram post he made on December 31, before he rang in the new year. He hailed "2024 as an incredibly taxing year "physically and mentally" in the post but was able to see the bright side.
He wrote: "The tribulations of 2024 will undoubtedly take a firm base in my wellbeing. I hope that all of us remain that much healthier in the new beginning of 2025."
Here's an English translation of his post:
2024, the year of trials and difficulties...
It was truly a challenging year for me, both physically and mentally.
I know well that through pain, we learn and grow. I believe in overcoming it humbly and solidly and plan to send it off with gratitude.
Thank you for all of this too!
The difficulties of 2024 will surely be used as a healthy foundation for me!
In the new year of 2025, let's all become healthier!
I hope and wish for a year overflowing with gratitude at every moment while maintaining a flexible life! 🙏🏻
To my family, my friends, my staff, and my clovers 🙏🏻🫶🏻🍀
Since then, messages of condolence from friends and fans have filled the comment section of the post. His death was mourned on social media by celebrity friends, including Poongja, Hwangbo, and 2NE1 member Sandara Park.
The first to announce Lee's passing was Poongja, one of Lee's closest pals.
"My beloved Seoul Salon Lee Hee-chul has become a star in the sky today," she said.
"I can't believe it even as I write this, but I'm leaving this message for those who loved my brother and those who know him who haven't heard from him yet. Please pray that he can go to a good place," she added.
Lee will be buried on Jan. 10 at the Soonchunhyang Seoul Hospital funeral hall.
