Ex-SG Wannabe's Dong-hwa suicides
27 May – Ballad trio SG Wannabe's former member Chae Dong-ha committed suicide by hanging himself in his home in Bulkwang-dong, as widely reported by Korean media.
The Eunpyung-gu rescue team is said to have received the report from Chae Dong-ha's manager on the morning of the 27th. It is stated that he was pronounced dead on the scene and that police have confirmed the identity of his body.
His agency stated: "Chae Dong-ha has always suffered from depression. He recently returned after completing his Japanese promotions. This morning, we weren't able to get into contact with him so we called 911 and later discovered him."
According to allkpop, many are speculating that Chae Dong-ha's depression came about because of the suicide of his former manager, who died two years ago inhaling gas in a motel room.
In his official comeback album, "Essay" 30 year old Chae had written a special message to the manager which read: "It was a moment more exciting than my first kiss. My first manager, my consolation, my friend and my brother. The moment I met that person, I have received the whole world. As of June 9th 2009, he is no longer by my side. Half of my heart is still missing. Still, brother, you have to be happy okay? Promise me that you will be happy."
Chae Dong-ha was born on 23 June 1981. He first debuted in 2002 as a solo artist for Na Ture. He was the main vocal and leader for SG Wannabe when the group debuted in 2004 until he left the group in March 2008 to pursue a solo career.
Last January, it was reported that Chae and former V.O.S Park Ji-hun will be forming a duo together. Fans were anticipating the collaboration.
Earlier on 23 May, MBC Plus Sports' anchorwoman Song Ji-sun committed suicide, making Dong-ha's death the second suicide in Korean entertainment within a week.
