Choi Sung Bong
Seoul police announced on Wednesday that Choi Sung-bong, 33, a Korean singer who rose to prominence after finishing second in Korea’s Got Talent in 2011, committed suicide.
Police discovered the singer’s body at his residence in the Yeoksam-dong district of southern Seoul at 9:41 a.m. on Tuesday.
In 2011, the controversial singer scored a significant berth on Korea’s Got Talent. He also signed a record deal with the Korean label Bong Bong Company and went on to write a best-selling biography about his rise from destitute youth to internet celebrity.
However, his career took a dark turn in 2021 when he launched a fundraising effort claiming to be facing numerous forms of cancer and in need of funds for treatment. It was eventually found to be a scam.
The musician also apologized for his actions and pledged to refund the funds he received.
Police suspect that Choi Sung Bong committed suicide because of the situation at his home and a note he posted to his YouTube channel the day before implying suicide.
“I sincerely apologize to all who were harmed by my foolish mistake”, the note said. The note further stated that all donations had been returned.
