**Verification of Drug Administration Through Autopsy**
Singer Wheesung (43, real name Choi Whee-sung) was found dead at his home in Gwangjin-gu, Seoul on the afternoon of the 10th, and a syringe was found near his body, it was reported on the 11th. The Gwangjin Police Station in Seoul has requested an autopsy from the National Forensic Service (NFS) to determine the exact cause of Choi’s death. The autopsy will be conducted on the morning of the 12th.
According to our comprehensive coverage, authorities discovered the syringe while handling Choi’s body. The NFS will investigate whether Choi administered drugs and if the substance involved was a narcotic.
Choi had been charged in 2019 with administering the psychoactive sleep anesthetic propofol and was sentenced to 1 year in prison with a 2-year probation on appeal in 2021. In 2020, he was found collapsed after taking the sleep-inducing anesthetic etomidate.
The autopsy results are expected in a month. However, the police have not found any indications of criminal activity regarding Choi’s death. The Gwangjin Fire Department responded to a call from Choi’s mother at 6:29 p.m. the previous day, reporting that her son had collapsed, and they found Choi lifeless.
A police representative stated, “Due to investigative protocols, details cannot be disclosed,” but added, “Given that no will was found and there were no signs of external intrusion, an autopsy is deemed necessary.”
Choi’s agency, Tajoy Entertainment, stated, “The family wishes to hold a private funeral attended by family, relatives, and close friends.” It is reported that the family is even considering not setting up a memorial space.
Choi’s scheduled performances have been canceled. He was set to perform at the Daegu EXCO Auditorium on the 15th and at Chosun University in Gwangju on the 23rd. Choi had posted on his social media on the 6th, “Diet done. See you on March 15.”
Social media was flooded with tributes to the late singer. Rapper Verbal Jint wrote, “All the moments we shared were an honor, and I am grateful,” and actress Ock Joo-hyun stated, “I will remember and pray for you to be happy over there with your vivacious passion for music.” On Choi’s official fan cafe, fans wrote messages like, “Thanks to Wheesung, I persisted and lived while smiling,” and “I can’t believe it. I love you.”