The South Korean entertainment industry meets with another blow as they mourn the death of singer-actor Chung Lim at 37 after fighting colon cancer.
On July 20, 2024, a media house reported that Korean singer and actor Chung Lim (also known as Han Cheong Lim) passed away on July 19, 2024, after bravely fighting colon cancer at the tender age of 37. This has left netizens in utter shock as they continue to share their condolences and memories with the bereaved artist.
EARLY LIFE
Born in 1986, Chung Lim did his majors in Korean dance at the Korean National University of Arts and debuted in 2004 with the K-Drama ‘I’m Sorry, I Love You’. He has also worked in other K-Dramas such as Dream (2009) and Smile, Mom (2010). The Dream actor starred in a few K-Dramas before finally making his debut in the music industry with his first EP album Step. His dance skills and stature earned him comparisons with the renowned K-Pop artist Rain.
He also made multiple appearances in two variety shows namely Star Golden Bell in 2004 and Let’s Go! Dream Team Season 2 in 2009.
He was also well-known for having an appealing appearance and was frequently contrasted with South Korean actress Kim Tae-Hee from ‘Hi Bye, Mama’ who is considered as one of South Korea’s most attractive actresses. During his debut, he reportedly was known as the male counterpart of Kim Tae-Hee.
BATTLE WITH CANCER
A media house confirmed that he was diagnosed with cancer 13 years back in 2010, probably being the reason why he wasn’t seen much in the limelight since 2010. He underwent countless chemo-therapies and surgeries but his cancer returned back in 2011 and ultimately took his life.
LOVED ONES IN GRIEF
As of August 2021, it was reported that he was working as a sales representative for a motorcycle company. He was also reported to be married. The news of his death quivered the hearts of many, leading to an outpour of grief on social media.
Singer Cho Min-Ah, a first-generation member of the K-Pop group Jewelry took to her Instagram and shared her tribute to the actor. The image of him in her mind was an innocent smile, a brilliant and pure soul. Recognizing the difficulties he must have faced throughout his battle with colon cancer, the pain of his premature death weighed heavily on her. She bid him off and prayed for a pain-free eternal life for the actor-singer.
ANOTHER BLOW FOR KOREANS
It has indeed been a bad year for the South Korean Entertainment industry which saw many deaths in the last few days. Earlier this month, Korean singer Lee Sang Eun was reportedly found lifeless in her bathroom, moments before her performance.
On June 21, 2024, singer Choi Sung Bong was found dead in his apartment. He had uploaded a ‘farewell’ video for his fans which led to the involvement of the Police, thus suspecting foul play.
On April 19, 2024, K-Pop Group Astro’s member Moonbin was found dead in an apartment. Police have reported it to be a case of suicide.
A Media House confirmed that the funeral of the late actor will take place on July 21 at 9 AM KST. He has been prepared for burial in Gangnam district’s Severance Hospital’s Funeral Hall. The Yeongsaengwon in Seongwan is said to be where he will be buried.
As we grieve the loss of the late actor, may we continue to remember Chung Lim for his contributions to the joy he offered to those who knew him. May the everlasting peace comfort his spirit.
