Lee Sun-kyun, Moonbin, Jung Chae-yull: Celebrities who passed away in 2023

It has been a morbid year for the South Korean entertainment industry, who lost several celebrated talents this year. From Moonbin and Jung Chae-yull’s shocking demise to Na Chul losing it to a health battle and December bringing the disturbing news of Lee Sun-kyun’s untimely demise, here's memorializing the celebrities who passed away in 2023.

Haesoo

In May, it was reported that K-pop idol Haesoo had passed away. The 29-year-old was reportedly found dead at her residence with what is presumed to be a suicide note. Her representative had said in a statement, "On May 12, Haesoo left our side and became a light in the vast ocean. Haesoo was a warm person who knew how to give love to those around her, share affection, and receive it. Her bereaved family, as well as her acquaintances and colleagues, are all mourning her with heavy hearts after being informed of the sudden sad news."

Jung Chae-yul, who was in the middle of shooting a Korean drama, was found dead at her home in April this year. The 26 year old actress’ demise was confirmed by Management S, who said in a statement, “Actress Chae-yul has left our side on April 11, 2023. We pray that Chae-yul, who has always been sincere about acting, is able to rest in peace in a warm place.”

2023 came to a closure with the most shocking celebrity demise. Actor Lee Sun-kyun, who was embroiled in an alleged drugs probe which he had denied and stated that he was tricked into, was found dead in a car in a park in Seoul. His wife and actress Jeon Hye-jin reportedly made a concerning call about the actor after she found a note written by him, which read like a will. Lee Sun-kyun (48) passed away on December 27 and is survived by his wife and two kids.

In April this year, fans of ASTRO were left devastated with the demise of Moonbin. The 25-year-old idol passed away on April 19. He reportedly died by suicide at his residence in Gangnam, Seoul. His agency Fantagio had said in a statement, "First, we apologize for having to convey this sorrowful and heartbreaking news. On April 19, ASTRO member Moonbin suddenly left us and has now become a star in the sky. Although it cannot compare to the grief of the bereaved family that had to part with their beloved son and brother, his fellow artists and the staff here at Fantagio, who have been together with him for a long time, are also deeply mourning the departed amidst tremendous shock and sorrow."

At the start of this year, the South Korean film industry lost one of its prized actors, Na Chul. On January 21 it was reported that he passed away due to health issues. According to reports the actor was receiving medical care after battling a sudden health complication. Na Chul was popularly known for his performance in 'Weak Class Hero 1', 'Vincenzo' and 'Little Women'.

In an unfortunate turn of events, Park Soo Ryun passed away on June 11 this year. The 29-year-old actress reportedly fell down the stairs and was declared dead by doctors after she was rushed to a hospital. The 'Snowdrop' star's family decided to donate her organs, Park Soo Ryun’s mother had stated, “Only her brain is unconscious, and her heart is still beating. There must be someone who desperately needs [organs]. As her mother and father, we will be able to live comforted [by the thought that her heart] has gone to someone and is beating.”