K-pop and K-drama stars who died by suicide: List includes Kim Sae-ron and Moonbin

The recent death of 24-year-old actress Kim Sae-ron on February 16 has reignited discussions about the relentless scrutiny and cyberbullying faced by celebrities in the East Asian country.

The Netflix’s Bloodhounds actress, who had stepped back from the public eye following a 2022 DUI incident that resulted in her struggling to land new roles, was found dead in her Seoul home, with authorities considering it a suicide.

The incident is not isolated. In November 2024, Yaksha: Ruthless Operations actor Song Jae-rim was found dead in Seoul at the age of 39, in what was also considered a suicide, after police found a suicide note at the scene.

In 2023, K-pop idol Moonbin from ASTRO, died at a young age of 25 after he was found dead in his Seoul home, with authorities suggesting suicide as the probable cause.

Experts point to a combination of factors, including the unforgiving nature of "cancel culture," invasive media practices, and the immense pressure to maintain an idealised public image. The intense scrutiny and lack of privacy leave many artists vulnerable, with limited avenues for mental health support.

Here are some South Korean celebrities who have taken their lives in recent years, prompting calls for a systemic change within the entertainment industry.

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