Actor Song Jae-rim, who was always sincere with his fans, has passed away. Grieving fans are comforting themselves by reflecting on the writings and photos he left behind during his lifetime.
In March 2021, Song Jae-rim posted on his fan gallery, “This place has always been intimidating to me. I’ve seen recent posts and past posts, and there are many who are angry and many who are curious. I’ve made many mistakes in speech and action both through Instagram and at fan meetings.”
He continued, “I think many won’t easily calm their anger just by saying it was the mistake of a young and immature guy. I’m sorry. I should have done better in many ways, but I was lacking. Of course, I am still lacking and perhaps even more so compared to then. Everyone liked different aspects, and I think the points they disliked are different too, which makes it hard. I’m sorry for the things I didn’t do well.”
Song Jae-rim sincerely apologized to his fans who supported him and at times gave him constructive criticism, saying, “I just want to say to those who are angry with me at any time, and to those disappointed, that I’m sorry. I’m trying my best, but there are difficulties. I guess that’s why I couldn’t see things more clearly. I’m very sorry, and I will try harder.”
However, Song Jae-rim is no longer with his fans. He was found deceased at his home in Seongdong-gu, Seoul, on the 12th, leaving behind two letters. He was 39 years old. His wake was held on the 12th, and the funeral took place at noon on the 14th. The funeral was conducted privately at the request of the family, and he became a star in the sky amidst many tears.
Fans are revisiting Song Jae-rim’s works and his social media traces to console their longing for him. Before his passing, Song Jae-rim had organized his Instagram feed to leave 100 photos, allowing fans to meticulously cherish his memories while swallowing their sorrow.
Debuting as a model and transitioning to acting in 2009, Song Jae-rim made his mark in works like “Flower Boy Ramen Shop,” “Moon Embracing the Sun,” “Inspiring Generation,” “Unkind Ladies,” “My Gap-soon,” and films like “Hello” and “Bait.”
He continued to connect with the public through various works such as TVING’s “Usiwanghu,” JTBC’s “Pit-a-Pat Romance,” the play “Wife,” and the musical “The Rose of Versailles.” The film “Plunge: A Man with a Failed Business,” directed by Hyun Haeri, which was set to release, became his final work.
For those struggling with feelings of depression or having difficulties, or if you have family or acquaintances dealing with such struggles, you can contact the Suicide Prevention Hotline at 109 or seek counseling through SNS Counseling Madeline (a friend who listens from afar) for 24-hour expert consultation.