K-pop singer Choi Sung Bong found dead, shares suicide note on YouTube channel
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Renowned Korean singer Choi Sung Bong was discovered dead in his Seoul home on June 20. He had uploaded a "farewell" message on his YouTube channel.
The Seoul Police, as reported by several Korean media outlets, suspect it to be a case of suicide, considering the nature of the letter and the circumstances surrounding it. A post-mortem examination is yet to be conducted. It is believed that the message may have been scheduled prior to his decision to die by suicide.
Choi Sung Bong rose to fame in 2011 as the runner-up on tvN's Korea's Got Talent. Releasing his album Slow Boy in 2014, he continued his musical pursuits after the show.
However, it was later revealed that his claims of being diagnosed with colorectal cancer, thyroid cancer, and prostate cancer were fabricated. Previously dubbed the "Korean Paul Potts," he denied any suspicions related to his health but was later exposed for forging his medical conditions. He also faced accusations and criticism for allegedly misusing the one billion won he received from crowdfunding for entertainment expenses.
After irrefutable evidence surfaced, Choi Sung Bong publicly admitted his mistakes and expressed remorse. He faced a social backlash and was shunned by the industry.
He eventually found employment at a restaurant.
Prior to death, he reached out to his subscribers through his YouTube channel and wrote the final message to his fans. Apologizing profusely for his transgressions, he assured them that all the money he had received over the past two years had been refunded. He concluded the letter with the chilling statement that he needed to pay for his sins with his life.
Choi Sung Bong's unexpected death has left the entertainment industry and his dedicated fan base mourning the loss of a talented artist. The controversy surrounding his past actions adds an additional layer of complexity to the sadness.
