Biography
Sulli was a South Korean singer, actress, and model. She was born on March 29, 1994, and began her career as a child actress before debuting as a member of the girl group f(x) under SM Entertainment in 2009. Known for her bright personality and unique fashion style, she gained popularity both as an idol and an actress. In 2015, she left f(x) to focus on acting and personal projects. Sulli was also recognized for her outspoken views on social issues, challenging conservative norms in South Korea. Tragically, she passed away in October 2019, sparking discussions on cyberbullying and mental health awareness. Despite her short life, Sulli left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry and remains an influential figure.
Profile
- Name: Sulli
- Birth name: Choi Jin-ri
- Birthday: March 29, 1994
- Zodiac Sign: Aries
- Height: 170 cm
- Instagram: @jelly_jilli
- Twitter: N/A
Career
Sulli began her career as a child actress in 2005, playing young Princess Seonhwa in the SBS drama “Ballad of Seodong.” She continued acting in minor roles in dramas and films such as “Vacation” (2006), “Punch Lady” (2007), and “BABO” (2008). During her early years, she joined SM Entertainment as a trainee and later debuted as a member of the girl group f(x) in 2009 with the single “La Cha Ta.”
In 2012, Sulli gained recognition as the lead actress in “To the Beautiful You,” a drama adaptation of the Japanese manga Hana-Kimi. Her performance earned her the New Star Award at the SBS Drama Awards. However, in 2014, she went on hiatus due to exhaustion from malicious comments and rumors. She officially left f(x) in 2015 to focus on acting and modeling, participating in films such as “The Pirates” (2014) and “Real” (2017).
In 2018, Sulli returned to music as a featured artist in Dean’s single “Dayfly.” She later made her solo debut in June 2019 with the single album “Goblin,” which she co-wrote and co-produced. That same year, she joined the JTBC2 variety show “The Night of Hate Comments,” where she openly discussed online criticism and societal issues. She was also cast in Netflix’s “Persona 2,” though filming was halted due to her passing in October 2019. Sulli’s career left a significant impact on the entertainment industry, and she remains an influential figure in K-pop and Korean cinema.
Personal Life
Early Life
Sulli was born in Busan, South Korea. After her parents divorced, she lived with her mother, maternal grandmother, and maternal grandfather. She once shared that she always listened to her mother out of fear that she might leave her as well. Raised by her mother alone, Sulli grew up in a financially struggling household. Her mother managed to save just over 10 million won and decided to send Sulli to an acting academy instead of kindergarten.
Recognizing her talent, an instructor at the academy encouraged Sulli and her mother to move to Seoul, believing she had the potential to succeed there. In 2004, while in fourth grade, Sulli moved to Seoul alone to attend the MTM Academy, a part-time theater school where she studied singing, dancing, and acting. That same year, she appeared with her mother on the Ulsan MBC variety show “Cooking Show! The World of Dining.”
Sulli officially began her acting career in 2005 after winning an award at the Pretty Child Contest, where she was discovered by producer Kim Young-ik. That year, she was cast as young Princess Seonhwa in the SBS drama “Ballad of Seodong,” securing the role against 100:1 odds and gaining public recognition. Later, she was personally scouted by SM Entertainment’s founder, Lee Soo-man, and began her trainee life, spending about four years in preparation for her debut.
Before her official debut, Sulli changed her stage name from Choi Jin-ri, which means “the truth” in Korean, to Sulli. This was suggested by a reporter who thought her birth name sounded “too Christian” and might not appeal to people of other religions. In an interview, Sulli later interpreted her stage name as meaning “pear blossoms in the snow.”
Public Image and Advocacy
After leaving f(x), Sulli attracted media attention for her unconventional and outspoken persona, which sparked both praise and criticism. While some saw her as progressive and bold, conservative outlets deemed her behavior inappropriate. Her public image, unlike many idols, was not carefully curated, and she openly challenged societal norms for women in Korea.
Sulli was known for advocating feminist causes, supporting Comfort Women Day in 2018, and promoting the no-bra movement despite backlash. She also spoke out against cyberbullying, often addressing the online abuse she faced. On “The Night of Hate Comments,” she candidly discussed personal topics, including dating and pregnancy rumors.
Beyond her activism, Sulli was an artist, inspiring IU’s songs “Peach” and “Red Queen,” the latter based on her own drawing titled Portrait.
Dating History
Relationship Rumors with G-Dragon
Over the years, Sulli was frequently linked to G-Dragon of BIGBANG, with several rumors surrounding their relationship. In 2009, shortly after Sulli’s debut with f(x), G-Dragon mentioned her as his ideal type on a radio show. This statement propelled Sulli into the spotlight, keeping her name in the top real-time search rankings for days. The situation even caused a minor controversy when f(x) had to cancel an appearance on a radio show hosted by Super Junior, fueling speculation about tensions between SM Entertainment and YG Entertainment.
Despite the initial backlash from fans, f(x) members later showed appreciation for G-Dragon’s support by presenting him with congratulatory bouquets during his Music Bank wins.
Dating Scandal with Choiza
On September 26, 2013, dating rumors between Sulli and Choiza of Dynamic Duo emerged after photos of them together surfaced online. The rumors led to widespread online harassment, including sexual remarks due to Choiza’s stage name.
Initially, SM Entertainment denied the relationship, stating they were just close friends. However, in June 2014, Choiza lost his wallet, and a photo of him and Sulli together inside the wallet was leaked online. Unlike before, the agency did not refute the claims.
Choiza later referenced the incident humorously on television programs such as “Human Condition” and “SNL Korea,” which some critics felt was inappropriate, arguing that he should have been more protective of his younger girlfriend. After dating for nearly three years, the couple officially broke up on March 6, 2017.
Net Worth
At the time of her passing in 2019, Sulli’s net worth was estimated at around $15 million. She amassed her wealth through a successful career as a singer, actress, and model. As a member of f(x), she contributed to hits like “Electric Shock,” while also starring in dramas such as “To the Beautiful You” and films like “The Pirates.” In 2019, she made her solo debut with “Goblin.” Her social media presence, particularly on Instagram, further solidified her influence and financial success.
Controversies
Pre-2014 Controversies
On July 14, 2013, Sulli caused controversy on “Running Man” by unintentionally uttering a Chinese profanity on air. The phrase “肏你妈 (càonǐmā)” was heard in her voice, which translates to an offensive insult. The “Running Man” production team later apologized, calling it an editing mistake. Despite concerns about backlash from Chinese audiences, the incident did not escalate significantly overseas. The Korean Broadcasting and Communications Review Committee later issued a minor disciplinary action.
In September 2013, Sulli faced criticism for her attitude during a stage performance. Fans accused her of lacking enthusiasm, and SM Entertainment defended her, stating she was unwell. However, comparisons arose with fellow f(x) member Krystal, who once collapsed on stage but continued performing, further fueling the controversy.
In March 2014, Sulli was rumored to have been hospitalized due to stress-induced stomach pain caused by excessive malicious comments.
In August 2010, Sulli and Krystal were criticized for allegedly showing irritation during a commercial shoot. Reports from on-site staff claimed Sulli appeared tired and unapproachable. This led to negative online discussions, with searches like “Sulli rude” trending.
However, a High Cut magazine editor later defended her, stating that the negative rumors were false. The controversy originated when a journalist, unaware that f(x) had been filming all night, criticized their attitude. His comments were misinterpreted and amplified by online communities. Fortunately, an intern journalist present at the interview clarified that Sulli and Krystal’s behavior was not problematic, putting an end to the scandal.
On September 21, 2011, Sulli arrived 40 minutes late to a Sony Cyber-shot TX55 photo event due to a delay in receiving her outfit. SM Entertainment failed to inform waiting photographers, causing frustration. Given the tight schedules of press photographers, the delay disrupted multiple assignments, leading them to boycott her photoshoot in protest. As a result, Sony Korea had to release official images taken by a separate photographer. The primary responsibility for the incident was placed on SM Entertainment for poor scheduling and Sony Korea for mismanaging the event. However, the biggest victims were the photographers, whose schedules were severely affected.
2014 Hiatus Controversy
Shortly after f(x) made their comeback with “Red Light,” Sulli missed music show performances due to illness. However, when an acquaintance’s Instagram post revealed she had visited an art shop, controversy arose. A week later, on July 25, 2014, SM Entertainment announced she would be suspending activities due to stress from rumors and hate comments. Some questioned SM’s reasoning, and she withdrew from all schedules, including The Pirates premiere and SMTOWN LIVE TOUR.
On July 31, Choiza’s cousin posted (and quickly deleted) a video showing Choiza and a woman presumed to be Sulli, reigniting dating rumors. With f(x)’s promotions halted, fans grew frustrated when signs of her relationship with Choiza surfaced, feeling she was being irresponsible toward the group. Opinions were divided—some defended her right to personal time, while others criticized her absence despite the group’s hard work. Adding fuel to the fire, Choiza joked about their rumors on variety shows, further angering f(x) fans.
On August 11, Sulli’s KakaoTalk profile leaked, showing a photo of her and Choiza’s hands with the caption “Choerry Tomato.” Combined with another Instagram post hinting at a farm visit, it was seen as more evidence of their relationship. Then, on August 19, Dispatch published photos of Sulli and Choiza on a movie date, contradicting SM’s previous denial of their relationship. The report also claimed she had requested to leave f(x) over disagreements regarding their repackaged album. This revelation turned many fans against her, leading to the destruction of Sulli-related merchandise and the creation of “clean versions” of f(x) songs removing her parts.
Eventually, SM confirmed her relationship with Choiza but denied she was leaving f(x). However, fans’ resentment grew, especially after Krystal collapsed from exhaustion during SMTOWN Shanghai Concert. Sulli returned to the public eye at the Fashion King premiere, drawing backlash for attending a film event while skipping f(x) activities. Then, on January 13, 2015, she appeared at the SMTOWN Artium opening, reigniting fan outrage.
Initially excluded from SMTOWN Artium posters, her image was later added, suggesting a possible f(x) return. However, most fans had already turned away from her, and her reputation within the fandom remained damaged.
Departure from f(x)
On June 25, 2015, reports surfaced that Sulli would be leaving f(x) to focus on acting. Since she originally debuted as a child actress, this was seen as a return to her roots. However, SM Entertainment initially stated that nothing had been confirmed.
f(x) fans were the most vocal in celebrating her departure, as many had grown frustrated with her attitude and lack of commitment to the group. On August 7, 2015, SM officially announced that Sulli had left f(x) to pursue acting but would remain under the company.
In later years, following Sulli’s tragic passing, some began to reevaluate her departure from f(x) with a different perspective.
Instagram Controversies
Sulli sparked controversy by posting photos and videos on Instagram while not wearing a bra. She explained on JTBC’s “Night of Hate Comments” that she found it comfortable and healthy, considering bras an accessory rather than a necessity. She continued posting despite criticism, emphasizing that going braless was a personal choice. However, in September 2019, an accidental exposure occurred during a live broadcast.
Some of her photos were also accused of having a Lolita aesthetic, as they were taken by ROTTA, a photographer known for such themes. The debate centered on whether the photos were sexualizing minors or simply artistic. In response, Sulli dismissed the criticism, later deleting the photos and unfollowing ROTTA.
Amid these controversies, some viewed her Instagram activity as unnecessary image consumption, while others saw it as an attempt to cultivate a bold public persona like Miley Cyrus. Others believed she was simply living life on her own terms.
Grilled Eel Video Controversy
On June 20, 2017, Sulli posted a video of live eels being grilled, mimicking cries of pain, saying, “Help! Save me!” Critics accused her of mocking a dying animal. She later deleted the video but followed up with a post of fully grilled eel captioned, “Don’t eat eels, guys! Merong (teasing sound).” After continued backlash, she responded, “You’re worse than me.” While some tried to report her for animal cruelty, the law did not apply to eels as food animals.
“Seongmin-ssi” Controversy
Sulli referred to actor Lee Sung-min as “Seongmin-ssi” on Instagram, which some found disrespectful. The National Institute of the Korean Language clarified that while “-ssi” is a polite term, it is typically not used for elders or superiors.
Sulli responded, “We are all colleagues and friends who respect each other. People are overreacting.” She argued that honorifics should be a matter of personal preference rather than public debate.
Tardiness at Real Showcase
On May 31, the first showcase for Real began, with Kim Soo-hyun and Sung Dong-il in attendance. The event started about 10 minutes late, and Sulli only appeared after Kim Soo-hyun and Sung Dong-il had finished their greetings. According to remarks from Sung Dong-il and Park Kyung-lim, despite being in the waiting room, she was delayed because she changed outfits three times.
Sulli’s Passing: A Loss That Shook the Nation
The Tragic Passing
On October 14, 2019, at around 3:21 PM, Sulli was found deceased at her home in Seongnam, Gyeonggi Province. Her manager, unable to contact her since 6:30 PM the previous day, alerted the police. Despite emergency efforts, she was pronounced dead.
No suicide note was found, but a handwritten memo reflecting her thoughts was discovered. Authorities found no signs of foul play, and an autopsy on October 16 confirmed no evidence of homicide, leading to the conclusion that she had taken her own life.
Many speculated that online harassment and depression contributed to her passing. Critics accused SM Entertainment of failing to address her concerns about malicious comments.
Her funeral was held privately on October 17 at Sinchon Severance Hospital. Despite her family’s efforts to keep it undisclosed, reporters revealed the location. In response, SM Entertainment arranged a separate public memorial on October 15-16.
Industry and Public Reactions
Sulli’s sudden passing shocked the public, especially as she had just completed an ad shoot and posted on Instagram the day before. Her name dominated search rankings, and major news channels covered her death.
The entertainment industry mourned deeply. Most SM artists canceled their schedules, including Super Junior, Taeyeon, NCT, and SuperM. Luna halted her musical performances, Amber expressed condolences, and Victoria flew from China for the funeral. Krystal stayed by Sulli’s side throughout the mourning period. Many celebrities, including IU, postponed projects and paid tribute.
The scheduled recording of “Night of Hate Comments,” which Sulli appeared on, proceeded without her until news of her passing broke, leading to the show’s cancellation.
Her death reignited discussions on cyberbullying and malicious comments. She had previously shared her struggles with panic disorder and social anxiety, admitting, “Inside, I feel dark, but as a celebrity, I have to act bright.” This tragedy led to renewed calls for stricter regulations on online harassment.
After Sulli’s passing, fans started the trend “Love You Sulli” (설리 사랑해) to push down negative search results. IU’s song Peach, which she wrote about Sulli, also re-entered the music charts. Tragically, a month later, Sulli’s close friend Goo Hara died by suicide.
The documentary “Dear Jinri,” centered on Sulli’s final interview filmed during the production of “Persona” shortly before her death, premiered at the 28th Busan International Film Festival on October 7, 2023. It was later released worldwide on Netflix in November as the second episode of “Persona: Sulli.”
Family Dispute Over Inheritance
On January 18, 2020, Sulli’s older brother publicly accused their father of neglecting Sulli during her lifetime but suddenly showing interest in her inheritance after her passing.
According to South Korean law, as Sulli was unmarried and childless, her inheritance automatically went to her parents. Her brother’s claims sparked debate over inheritance laws, later influencing discussions on the Goo Hara Act, named after fellow K-pop star Goo Hara, which sought to prevent estranged parents from claiming their deceased child’s assets.
Media and Netizen Controversies
Sulli’s passing led to criticism of journalists who had previously written baseless and misogynistic articles about her. Some media outlets used her death to incite gender conflict, portraying it as a result of either male-dominated hate culture or feminist backlash against her actions.
Following the backlash, a movement emerged among netizens to archive and expose past articles that had contributed to Sulli’s distress.
Some journalists violated the family’s privacy by revealing the funeral location. Spotv News initially published an article respecting the family’s wish for a private ceremony, only to later disclose the funeral location. The backlash led to the removal of the article.
Sulli’s passing was a tragic event that exposed the dark realities of cyberbullying, media sensationalism, and the pressures of the entertainment industry. Her legacy continues to spark discussions on mental health awareness, online harassment, and systemic changes in media ethics.
