On May 26, 2011, Chae Dong-ha was found dead in his apartment in Eunpyeong District, Seoul. He was 30 years old at the time. Police found no evidence of foul play, and it was later revealed that he had been receiving outpatient treatment for depression.
Chae’s sudden passing came as a shock to fans and the entertainment industry alike. The news was especially devastating as he was scheduled to perform at the Tokyo Dome the very next day. He had also been preparing for a mini-album showcase and a birthday celebration with fans just weeks away.
Chae Dong-ha debuted as a solo artist in 2002 and joined SG Wannabe in 2004. As the group’s leader and a vocalist with a deeply emotional tone, he played a key role in their rise to fame. SG Wannabe dominated the mid-2000s, winning numerous accolades including three consecutive Golden Disc Awards, Album of the Year at the Mnet Music Festival, and Singer of the Year at the KBS Gayo Awards.
Chae departed from the group in 2008, SG Wannabe continued activities while Chae pursued his solo career, releasing heartfelt tracks like “How Can I Forget (No One Else..pt.2)” and “I Love You Because It’s You.” However, due to a vocal injury, he took a hiatus of over a year. In 2011, he released the duet “Looks Like Yesterday” with V.O.S’s Park Ji-heon.
His fellow member Kim Jin-ho paid tribute to Chae during a 2013 episode of KBS2’s Immortal Songs, performing the group’s hit “As I Live” alone on stage, visibly moved as he remembered his late friend.
Even after more than a decade, Chae Dong-ha is remembered not only for his musical talent but also for the emotion and sincerity he brought to every performance. As fans and friends continue to honor his memory, his legacy lives on in the timeless songs he left behind.
