K-Pop’s First-Gen Idol Dies After Saying “It’s Just a Sore Throat”
A beloved first-gen K-Pop idol tragically passed away at 19 after saying he had a sore throat. Discover the heartbreaking story behind his sudden death.
Kim Hwan Sung is remembered as one of K-pop's first flower boys. He made his debut in 1997 with the popular boy group NRG (New Radiancy Group), which quickly became one of the most loved first-generation K-pop groups.
Kim Hwan Sung’s early K-pop journey with NRG
At only 16 years old, Kim Hwan Sung joined NRG as its youngest member. The group had five members: Kim Hwan Sung, Lee Sung Jin, Chun Myung Hoon, Noh Yoo Min, and Moon Sung Hoon. Their first album sold over 200,000 copies in South Korea and they even won the New Face Award at the 1998 SBS Popular Song Awards.
One unique thing about NRG was their use of acrobatic stunts in choreography, which was rare at the time. This made them serious competitors of other top groups like H.O.T. Even Moon Hee Joon and Tony An of H.O.T. admitted they saw NRG as true rivals.
NRG’s international success and Kim Hwan Sung’s growing fame
NRG’s second album, Race, released in 1998, was a big success both in Korea and overseas. They became the first Korean group to promote in China, helping to start the first wave of Hallyu. During this time, Kim Hwan Sung gained more fans for his long hair, delicate looks, and polite behavior off-stage.
Tragic death of Kim Hwan Sung at age 19
In 1999, changes happened in NRG. One member left for acting, and another focused on producing. But in 2000, tragedy struck. After feeling unwell, Kim Hwan Sung was diagnosed with malignant viral pneumonia. He later fell into a coma and passed away on June 15, 2000, at just 19 years old.
Till today, the exact cause of Kim Hwan Sung’s death remains unknown. Some believe it may have been due to SARS, which later emerged publicly in 2003. However, since his body was cremated soon after, the truth will likely remain a mystery.
Honoring Kim Hwan Sung’s legacy in K-pop
Even after his death, Kim Hwan Sung’s memory stayed alive. NRG held their first concert in 2001, where they performed tribute songs like “Good Bye My Friend” and “Antonio.” In 2002, the group finally won on a music show with their hit “Hit Song,” a dream Kim always had.
Kim Hwan Sung’s short but bright career remains a big part of K-pop history. He inspired many fans and idols with his talent, charm, and dedication.
