Several stars in South Korea’s entertainment industry, including actress Go Soo Jung, passed away at the height of their youth and potential. Their sudden deaths have left fans grieving and raised concerns about the intense pressures faced by young celebrities.
Go Soo Jung was an up-and-coming South Korean actress when she passed away. From her appearances on “Goblin” and her music video appearance in the hit K-pop sensation Bangtan Sonyeondan (BTS’) song “With Seoul,” she had a bright and sunny future ahead of her.
However, in February 2020, her management agency, Story J Company, announced her untimely death to fans. “A few days ago, actress Go Soo Jung bid farewell to this world and became one of the bright stars in the sky,” the statement read.
“We will always remember actress Go Soo Jung and her glowing smile which brightened the world. Please wish her a safe passage,” the agency added.
The actress reportedly died after suffering from a chronic illness. A private funeral was held for her friends, loved ones, and colleagues on February 9, 2020. It was confirmed that she had died two days earlier, on February 7.
Remembering Go Soo Jung
Go Soo Jung made her acting debut in the hit Korean drama series “Goblin.” She also appeared in the TV show “Solomon’s Perjury” from 2016 to 2017.
In 2017, she was given the opportunity to appear in a music video for BTS, particularly for their song “With Seoul.” At the time, BTS had already risen to fame not only in South Korea, but around the world.
Fans couldn’t help but shower the comment section of her management’s statement with prayers and condolences. “I watched U in goblin and it’s so sad that U have to leave our Earth. May Ur Family find comfort and peace, [sic]” one fan wrote.
“Rest In Peace ❤️,” said a second person. Her death was hard to grasp for many, especially since she died so young. “RIP, Young Warrior! Be free to fly unheeded by the physical pains & the constraints of the chronic illness (As that I understand you were afflicted with while on this earth!! [sic]” echoed a third supporter.
“So many young people died in the Korean TV industry..I hope it wont hear more such sad news, [sic]” commented a fourth person, noting how many young stars have passed away in recent years in South Korea.
Untimely Celebrity Deaths in South Korea
On May 6, 2019, another actress passed away after she walked out of her vehicle on a busy expressway. Actress Han Ji-seong was only 28 at the time of the incident, where she died after being hit by two vehicles.
At the time, it was reported that she might have been intoxicated, which impaired her judgment. It was also said that she and her husband had an argument before they stopped on the road shoulder so he could take a toilet break.
Months later, in October 2019, Sulli, a former K-pop girl band member, was found dead at 25 in Seongnam City, South Korea. Two months later, in December 2019, 27-year-old actor Cha In-ha was also found dead at his home. He was discovered by his manager, who quickly contacted the police.
The news of Cha In-ha’s death came less than two weeks after the death of K-pop star Goo Hara, who was also found dead at the age of 28. She was in her home at the time, and police noted no suspicion of foul play.
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South Korea’s Heavy Societal Pressure on Celebrities
South Korea is known for its harsh and unforgiving treatment of public figures, especially celebrities. When a celebrity becomes involved in a scandal or controversy, it often leads to the downfall of their career.
This societal pressure came into focus once again after the death of former child actress Kim Sae-ron on February 16, 2025. She rose to fame in the 2010 film “The Man from Nowhere,” but her career began to unravel after a drunk driving incident in 2022.
The accident caused power outages in a Seoul neighborhood, and her blood alcohol level was well over the legal limit. Kim expressed deep remorse and paid a fine of 20 million won. However, public scrutiny over the incident never eased.
Unlike in other countries where celebrities often recover from similar missteps, Kim appeared to be permanently ostracized, according to local reports citing industry insiders.
She lost acting roles, had her scenes cut from Netflix productions, and was blacklisted by brands and media outlets.
Her efforts to rebuild her life — such as working at a café and later preparing for a return through theater — were met with renewed ridicule and online harassment. Even a simple social media post sparked waves of fresh criticism. Ultimately, the relentless backlash contributed to the actress taking her own life.
Go Soo Jung and the other South Korean stars who left the world too soon had promising futures ahead of them. Though their lives were cut short, their talent and impact continue to live on in the hearts of those they inspired.
