by REERA YOO
Shin Hae-chul, a veteran singer and rock icon of the Korean music scene, tragically passed away on Monday at 8:19 p.m. KST after suffering a cardiac arrest, said hospital officials.
According to Yonhap, Shin had been in critical condition since suffering a heart attack on Oct. 22. He was admitted to an intensive care unit at the Asan Medical Center in southern Seoul and underwent a three-hour surgery. However, the singer never woke from his six-day coma.
Shin had reportedly visited the hospital twice a few days prior to his heart attack, complaining of chest pains. Although he was hospitalized on both occasions, he was released shortly each time.
His agency KCA Entertainment said in a statement that they are unsure of the cause of Shin’s heart attack, adding that singer did not have any health problems prior to the cardiac arrest.
“Although many hoped for his recovery and the medical staff did their best, he couldn’t make it. We express deep condolences to the bereaved family,” KCA said.
Shin debuted in 1988 at the MBC College Music Festival with the modern rock song “To You.” Nicknamed “King of Darkness” by his fans, the charismatic rocker released more than 30 studio albums and experimented with various genres including jazz, ballads, modern rock and techno.
According to local news outlets, Shin’s passing came as a shock to not only fans but also to many veteran artists, such as Seo Taiji, PSY and Lee Seung-hwan, who were all good friends with the rock icon.
Shin passed away at the young age of 46.
Photo courtesy of Koreaboo
