Alongside scandals and controversies that shook the global entertainment scene, 2024 also witnessed the tragic departures of numerous big names. These unexpected losses have been regarded as significant blows to the entertainment world and to fans worldwide.
Song Jae-rim
On November 12, 2024, the Korean media and public were shocked by the news that actor Song Jae-rim, known for his role in “The Moon Embracing the Sun”, was found dead at his home.
At the scene, the police discovered a two-page suicide note, leading to speculation that the actor took his own life. There were no signs of foul play. His funeral was held privately at Yeouido St. Mary’s Funeral Hall on November 14, 2024.
Born in 1985, Song Jae-rim gained public recognition through the hit drama “The Moon Embracing the Sun”. He later appeared in several projects, including “Flower Boy Ramen Shop” and “Our Gap-soon”. He was particularly adored by fans for his on-screen chemistry with Kim So Eun in the show “We Got Married”.
Following his funeral, actress Kim So-eun, who was Song Jae-rim’s partner in “We Got Married”, shared a heartfelt tribute on her social media. In particular, the actress published a photo of their time together, along with the message, “My heart aches beyond words. I hope you won’t feel lonely on this long journey. Goodbye, my dear friend. Until we meet again. Thank you all for your support; please don’t worry about me.”
Park Min-jae
On December 2, Korean media reported the passing of actor Park Min-jae. His younger brother announced the sad news on social media, “My beloved brother has left us to find rest. I hope everyone can join us in sending him off on his final journey.”
The actor’s funeral was held at Seoul National University Hospital on December 4.
The actor’s agency expressed shock, as he had mentioned plans for a month-long trip at the end of November.
During this trip, Park Min-jae had traveled to China but suffered a sudden cardiac arrest on November 29 and could not be revived. It took several days for his family to complete the procedures to repatriate his body to South Korea.
Norman Chui
On September 1, 2024, veteran martial arts star Norman Chui passed away at his home after a short battle with esophageal cancer at the age of 74. However, it wasn’t until mid-September 2024 that his family officially announced the news, leaving the public deeply saddened by the artist’s fate. Once hailed as a martial arts icon, Norman Chui’s quiet departure went unnoticed by many.
A few days after Norman Chui’s funeral, his wife also passed away from heart disease. The family decided to hold a joint memorial service for the couple on September 21 in Zhejiang, China. The event was attended by many of the actor’s friends and was conducted in a concise manner.
After a few days, Norman Chui’s wife also passed away from heart disease, prompting the family to hold a joint memorial for the couple.
Chiung Yao
In the early afternoon of December 4, the body of writer Chiung Yao was discovered at her home in Taiwan, China. The cause of death was announced as suffocation from carbon monoxide poisoning. Police found a suicide note beside her body.
In her note, Chiung Yao expressed her belief that death is a journey everyone must undertake and described it as the ultimate event in life. She stated that she did not wish to wither away slowly but instead wanted to take control of this “final event.” Her sudden passing shocked the public and artists who had worked with her.
Upon hearing the news, Ruby Lin was reportedly so shocked that she couldn’t speak, while Alec Su expressed gratitude and wished Chiung Yao eternal peace.
Liam Payne
Early on the morning of October 17 (KST), international and domestic media simultaneously reported the death of Liam Payne, a former member of One Direction. The singer fell from the third floor of the CasaSur Palmero Hotel in Buenos Aires and died instantly. The singer’s body was found with large quantities of drugs inside it.
Over a month later, on November 20, Liam Payne’s funeral was held at a church in England. The ceremony was attended by many of Liam Payne’s close relations, including his parents, the four members of One Direction, mentor Simon Cowell, new girlfriend Kate Cassidy, ex-girlfriend Cheryl, host James Corden, and footballer Robbie Keane. Liam Payne’s casket was carried to the church by a white horse-drawn carriage.
Shannen Doherty
On July 14, People reported that actress Shannen Doherty passed away at the age of 53 after a long battle with breast cancer.
Shannen Doherty’s loved ones and her beloved dog Bowie were by her side in her final moments. Her family requested privacy during this time of grief. Global fans were also deeply saddened and remembered her iconic role as Prue Halliwell in *Charmed*, a beloved image tied to the childhoods of many 80s and 90s fans.
