‘Trot singer Song Dae-gwan, known for hits like “A Lucky Day” and “Four Beats,” passed away suddenly from a heart attack at 10 a.m. on the 7th. He was 79 years old. The sudden news has deeply saddened his family and those around him, especially since he was known for maintaining his health through regular exercise.
Cho Yoon-jung, the head of his agency, Star Line-Up Entertainment, told the JoongAng Ilbo, “He did not have any underlying or chronic illnesses. He was not feeling well and went to the emergency room at Seoul National University Hospital, where he passed away from a heart attack. I was shocked when I received the news a little while ago.”
In a past conversation with the JoongAng Ilbo, Song Dae-gwan mentioned, “I rigorously exercise, like walking for two hours daily along Yangjae Stream,” emphasizing his dedication to fitness. He was also scheduled to appear on KBS’s “Gayo Stage” later this month. Last month, on the 19th, he passionately performed “Wallet Brother” on KBS1’s “National Singing Contest – Seoul Seongdong-gu Edition.”
Born in Jeongeup, North Jeolla Province, in 1946, Song grew up in poverty, to the extent of having to peel and eat pine tree bark. His grandfather, independence activist Song Yeong-geun, had his property confiscated by the Japanese while funding independence movements, which further strained the family financially. Despite growing up in such hardship, Song Dae-gwan never gave up on his dream of becoming a singer. Recognized for his talent and charisma, he debuted as a contracted singer with Jeonju KBS before moving to Seoul.
He started his music career in 1967 with “Kind-hearted Uncle,” but life in Seoul was difficult, forcing him to rely on friends for shelter without any money. The lyrics of “A Lucky Day” (1975), which he wrote himself, reflect his enduring hopefulness despite challenges. As the song gained popularity, so did Song Dae-gwan, who subsequently released hit songs like “Four Beats” and “A Popular Song.”
After getting married in 1977, he lived in the U.S. for ten years, running businesses like sandwich shops and shopping centers before returning home due to homesickness. Upon his return, he continued to gain popularity with songs such as “I Am Alone,” “Because of Affection,” and “One Ticket.”
In the 1990s, he was named one of the “Big Four Kings of Trot” alongside Tae Jin-ah, the late Hyeon Cheol, and Seol Woon-do. He had a close yet competitive relationship with Tae Jin-ah, appearing on variety shows and holding concerts together. When Hyeon Cheol, the eldest of the four, passed away last year, Song Dae-gwan expressed his sorrow, reminiscing about their constant companionship during their days in the spotlight.
Song Dae-gwan also served as the 4th president of the Korea Singers Association, advocating for a more diverse range of music programs on broadcast stations, which had been heavily focused on idol dance music since the 1990s. He was a multi-entertainer, appearing in dramas such as KBS2’s “The Princess Returns” (2009), SBS’s “New Gisaeng” (2011), and TV Chosun’s “Welcome to Healing Town” (2013).
Tae Jin-ah, who offered significant financial and emotional support to Song during his difficult times, said in an interview with the JoongAng Ilbo, “We spoke a month ago to exchange New Year’s greetings, and I’m deeply saddened by his sudden passing. We planned to hold a joint concert in May, which unfortunately will not happen.” He added, “Losing someone who was like a brother, whom I saw more than my family due to frequent broadcast activities and overseas performances, is very painful. Health truly is the most important for both him and his ill wife.”
The funeral hall is arranged at Room 1 of Seoul National University Hospital.’