As One member Lee Min (Lee Min-young) passed away suddenly on the 5th, leaving colleagues and acquaintances in shock.
Friends of Lee Min have been expressing disbelief, mourning the loss. A close acquaintance, upon receiving the news, said, "Every time we met, I wondered how someone could be so pure. It's hard to believe she's gone so suddenly."
A former As One staff member, identified only as A, posted a tribute on social media, saying, "Min-young, who worked with us for 10 years, wasn't just a celebrity but a real sister, always embracing us warmly. She always encouraged us to try new things and never skimped on praise. She was such a wonderful person, and I hope everyone will mourn her passing. May she rest in peace, free from pain."
Composer Yoon Il-sang, Lee Min's musical partner, also expressed deep sorrow. On the 6th, he posted on social media, "I will always remember your unique and beautiful voice. Working with you was always a joy," along with the cover image of As One's debut album 'Day by Day'. Yoon Il-sang composed As One's debut song 'Hope You're the Only One' in 1999, marking the beginning of their collaboration.
Lee Min was found deceased at her home by her husband on the afternoon of the 5th, at the age of 46. The police are currently investigating the exact cause of death, and her agency, Brand New Music, has asked for restraint from baseless speculation.
Lee Min, a second-generation Korean-American, was scouted as a singer while performing in a church choir in Los Angeles with Crystal, another member of As One. Since their debut in 1999 with the album 'Day by Day', they have released hit songs like 'I Want and Resent You' and 'Hope You Don't Know', earning widespread love.
Continuing her active career, Lee Min celebrated her 20th debut anniversary last year with the single 'Try Hard' and released a new song 'Happy Birthday' in June. Last month, she also featured in a collaboration track 'Just Stay as You Are' with rapper Hanhae and comedian Moon Se-yoon.
The deceased married a Korean man two years her senior in Hawaii in 2013, and it was reported that her husband found her upon returning home from work.
The wake is being held at Bundang Jesaeng Hospital Funeral Hall Room 1, with visitation starting today (7th). The funeral procession is scheduled for 5:30 AM on the 9th, with her husband serving as the chief mourner.
(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Kyung-youn)