Lee Kwok Cheung, a prominent figure in the Hong Kong music scene, has passed away at the age of 60. The singer, known for his emotional ballads and heartfelt performances, died on March 29, 2025, a loss confirmed by his close friend Chow Kai Sang. Reports indicate that Lee had been suffering from serious health issues related to his throat, which included a tumor that required major surgery.
Lee's health problems had been a concern for some time. Chow revealed that Lee had been experiencing a hoarse voice and had undergone significant medical procedures in recent years. The singer's condition reportedly worsened, leading to his passing. Chow shared that Lee had previously communicated about his health struggles, stating, "He had serious throat problems that required major surgery." This was compounded by a lung issue, as Chow later clarified on social media.
In a poignant farewell, Lee Kwok Cheung had posted on his social media just a week before his death. He shared a video of a cloudy sky accompanied by the word "Bye" and lyrics from his hit song "Fate is Not Over": "Don't let this world detect and record in the dark." This post, which seemed to hint at his awareness of his deteriorating condition, has resonated deeply with fans and friends alike.
Lee entered the entertainment industry in 1989 after participating in the 8th New Talent Singing Awards. He officially debuted as a singer in 1991, releasing his first album, "BLUE," which featured the hit single "Blue Sha La La." This track topped the radio charts for two consecutive weeks and earned him the RTHK Top Ten Chinese Gold Songs Award for Best New Artist.
His career took off with the release of his signature song "Fate is Not Over," which not only became a gold record but also led to an invitation to perform at the Tokyo Music Festival. Lee's other notable works include "Always You Encourage," a duet with Elvina Kong that became a karaoke staple, and "The Night of Picking Stars." Throughout the 1990s, he was a beloved figure in Hong Kong's music scene, known for his emotional delivery and relatable lyrics.
In the late 1990s, Lee shifted his focus to producing Hi-Fi audiophile records and covering popular songs. Despite the changes in his career direction, he remained a beloved artist, and in 2015, he held his first solo concert, "Fate is Not Over Concert," at the MacPherson Stadium.
In recent years, Lee had been primarily active in Guangdong Province, Mainland China, where he served as the artistic director of a media company in Guangzhou. His public appearances in Hong Kong had become increasingly rare, and he was known for his contributions to the music industry across the border.
Lee's passing has left a significant impact on his fans and the entertainment community. Many took to social media to express their condolences and share memories of how his music had touched their lives. One fan remarked, "His songs were the soundtrack of our youth, and his voice will be deeply missed."
In addition to his music career, Lee's personal life also garnered attention. He publicly came out as gay in a 2016 interview, discussing his long-term relationship with his boyfriend and the support he received from him. He also revealed that the child he raised, Alvin, was his nephew, whom he took in after the death of his sister-in-law.
Lee's journey was not without its challenges. In the mid-1990s, he faced a career downturn that led him to venture into business, but he experienced multiple failures in his entrepreneurial efforts. He also faced legal troubles in 2000 when he was found in possession of ecstasy pills at a nightclub, resulting in a fine and a criminal record. Despite these setbacks, Lee remained resilient and continued to pursue his passion for music.
His friend Chow Kai Sang expressed his sorrow over Lee's passing, stating, "He was a good man, and his kindness touched many people." Chow shared that he had recently communicated with Lee, discussing potential collaborations and expressing hope for his recovery.
Lee Kwok Cheung's legacy as a singer and songwriter will undoubtedly endure. His ability to connect with audiences through his heartfelt lyrics and powerful performances has left an indelible mark on the Hong Kong music industry. As fans gather to mourn his loss, they celebrate the life of an artist who dedicated himself to his craft and touched the hearts of many.
As the news of Lee's passing spreads, it serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing our loved ones. His contributions to music and his impact on fans will be remembered fondly, ensuring that his spirit lives on through his songs.