Model Kim Jong-seok, widely recognized as the face of the mens cosmetics brand DASHU, has died at the age of 29, sending shockwaves through the fashion and beauty communities. The news of his sudden passing on June 4 was confirmed by close acquaintances and has since stirred a wave of grief and speculation online.
Born in 1995, Kim Jong-seok began his modeling career in 2014 as a shopping mall model before rising to prominence as a DASHU brand ambassador. His popularity soared through engaging YouTube shorts and appearances such as the 2022 tvN dating reality show Sticking, which further cemented his status in the industry.
On June 5, one of Kims closest friends, identified only as A, took to social media to share the heartbreaking news. My brother. When I heard the news yesterday that you left us, my heart sank. I still cant believe that I wont be able to see your smiling face anymore in the days to come, A wrote. They continued, Even though you are no longer with us, you were a great gift to this world, and I will cherish you in my heart forever. Kim Jong-seok, I will always miss you. And I will always love you. Another acquaintance, B, expressed similar sentiments by posting a photo of a funeral flower arrangement with the words, Still cant believe it. Rest in peace there without pain.
The bereavement was made all the more difficult by rampant misinformation circulating online. Rumors linking Kims death to a separate incident—a soju bottle assault and a subsequent death at an officetel in Hanam, Gyeonggi Province—spread rapidly through online communities and social media platforms. Some speculated the two events were connected, citing similarities such as the date and location, and pointing to changes in Kims Instagram account status as evidence.
However, Kim Jong-seoks sister publicly refuted these claims, emphasizing the pain caused by such falsehoods to the family. In a heartfelt statement posted on social media, she said, There are many distorted facts about Jong-seok circulating in communities, which are causing great suffering to the bereaved family. We have not responded until now because we hoped Jong-seok would rest in peace, but these baseless rumors have spread uncontrollably. We plan to disclose the police and friends recorded conversations soon to clarify the truth. Please, for the sake of the deceased, stop the defamation. She also warned that malicious posts would be reported to cyber investigation authorities and legal action would be pursued.
The soju bottle assault incident in Hanam, which resurfaced following Kims death, involved a 20-something male displaying violent behavior by throwing soju bottles at his girlfriend and acquaintances inside an officetel. Police arrived after a 112 emergency call, separated the individual from others, and, deeming the violent behavior ceased, advised him to return home. Tragically, less than 20 minutes later, the man jumped from the rooftop of the same building, resulting in his death. While police had been preparing to file special assault charges against him, they are now focusing on investigating the precise circumstances surrounding his death.
The police have defended their response, stating the conditions for an on-the-spot arrest were not met. Nonetheless, the incident has sparked debate about whether the crisis was adequately recognized and managed, especially since the man was allowed to leave without protective measures after separation. This case highlights the need for a thorough review of police protocols in handling such volatile situations.
Back to Kim Jong-seok, his funeral was held on June 6 at 8 a.m. at Maru Memorial Hall in Hanam City, Gyeonggi Province, followed by burial at Chuncheon Ansilwon Yanggu-bong Ansilwon. The suddenness of his passing and the publics reaction prompted the family to switch his social media accounts to private on the morning of June 6 to protect their privacy amid the intense attention.
Friends and fans alike have expressed profound sorrow over the loss. Many visited his social media pages to leave tributes and mourn the absence of a vibrant figure whose warm smile and presence had touched many. The outpouring of grief underscores the impact Kim had not only as a model but as a beloved individual.
Despite the pain and confusion surrounding his death, Kim Jong-seoks legacy endures through his work in the beauty and fashion industries and the memories cherished by those who knew him. His familys efforts to dispel rumors and seek justice reflect a desire to honor his memory truthfully and respectfully.
As investigations continue into both Kims death and the unrelated Hanam incident, the public remains reminded of the complexities and sensitivities involved when tragedy strikes public figures. It is a stark call for compassion, accuracy, and responsibility in how such news is shared and discussed.
