It has already been 14 years since the late Chae Dong-ha, a member of SG Wannabe, passed away. Although time has passed, many continue to remember and miss him. His deep emotions and powerful voice remain vivid in the hearts of many.
The late Chae Dong-ha was found dead on May 26, 2011, at his home in the Bulkwang-dong area of Eunpyeong, Seoul. He was 30 years old. An autopsy requested by his family at the time found no signs of foul play, and he was known to have received outpatient treatment for depression during his lifetime. The final footprints he left behind remain a deep sorrow for fans and colleagues.
The late Chae Dong-ha, who debuted as a solo singer in 2002, joined SG Wannabe in 2004, leading the team's prime era alongside Kim Yong-jun and Kim Jin-ho. He won great love through numerous hit songs such as "Timeless," "Crime and Punishment," "Living," "My Person," and "Arirang," resonating with the emotions of the era. After leaving the group in 2008, he began solo activities again, but sadly, his life was cut short. His absence was filled by Lee Seok-hoon, but the unique deeply felt emotions from the early days of SG Wannabe continue to exist in the memories of fans alongside Chae Dong-ha's name.
Even now, more than 10 years after his passing, his music is being revisited through broadcasts and stages. In 2021, as the "MSG Wannabe" project began through MBC's "Hangout with Yoo," the classic songs of SG Wannabe were highlighted again, naturally rekindling memories and longing for the late Chae Dong-ha.
Kim Jin-ho appeared on tvN's "You Quiz on the Block" and mentioned the late Chae Dong-ha, saying, "There were farewells with some members, and there were many stories about life." He added, "At this moment, I want to share my voice like a diary with people," revealing his heartfelt sentiments toward Chae Dong-ha, who was a long-time colleague and friend.
In 2024, 14 years have passed since Chae Dong-ha left, but the resonance of his music and humanity remains ongoing. His short life and voice, which left a deep echo, continue to live on in the memories of fans.
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