Acclaimed Turkish singer Volkan Konak passed away on March 30, 2025, after collapsing during a concert at the Grand Sapphire Resort & Casino in Northern Cyprus. The beloved artist, known for his powerful voice and connection to the Black Sea region, was performing as part of a holiday celebration when he suddenly fell ill, prompting immediate medical attention.
According to reports from the Health Ministry of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), Konak was taken to Gazimağusa State Hospital shortly after collapsing on stage. Initial aid was provided by audience members before emergency services arrived. He was admitted to the hospital at 00:17 on March 31, 2025, but despite all medical efforts, he was pronounced dead at 00:42.
The hospital’s statement detailed the rapid response to Konak's medical emergency. CPR was administered for approximately 40 minutes at the concert site before he was intubated and transported to the hospital. Once there, a team of specialists continued advanced life support measures for an additional 25 minutes, but unfortunately, they were unable to revive him.
Volkan Konak, who was 58 years old at the time of his passing, was not only a celebrated musician but also a cultural icon in Turkey. His music often reflected the spirit of the Black Sea, resonating deeply with fans across the nation. Following the news of his death, tributes poured in from various sectors, including politics, sports, and the arts.
Ankara Mayor Mansur Yavaş expressed his condolences on social media, stating, "His powerful voice that shook our hearts, his songs that brought the rebellious wind of the Black Sea will now live on in our memories. He was not just an artist; he was always the voice, heart, and friend of these lands. May God have mercy on him and I offer my condolences to all his loved ones. We will never forget you..." Yavaş's heartfelt message captured the sentiments of many mourning Konak's loss.
Other notable figures also shared their grief. Politician Muharrem İnce remarked, "Karadeniz’in hırçın dalgaları gibiydi, bir bahar vaktinde Kuzeyin Oğlu Volkan Konak’ı kaybettik. Kendisine Allah’tan rahmet, ailesine ve sevenlerine sabır ve başsağlığı diliyorum," which translates to, "He was like the fierce waves of the Black Sea; we lost the Son of the North, Volkan Konak in the springtime. I pray for mercy for him, and patience and condolences to his family and loved ones."
Musician Mustafa Sandal also expressed his sorrow, stating, "I offer my condolences to the esteemed colleague, the great voice of the Black Sea, Volkan Konak. I am very sad. May your place be heaven, son of the North." Similarly, Yeşim Salkım conveyed her heartbreak, praying for strength for his family and expressing disbelief that such a talented artist could be lost in such a tragic manner.
Zafer Algöz lamented, "Very unfortunate... Our sorrow is endless... The beautiful man of the Black Sea, Volkan Konak, passed away on stage in Cyprus due to a heart attack. It is a great loss for our country. May our heads be held high." This sentiment echoed the collective grief felt across the nation.
Additionally, sports clubs such as Trabzonspor, Galatasaray, and Beşiktaş JK released statements mourning Konak's passing. Trabzonspor stated, "We are deeply saddened by the loss of our valuable artist, the Son of the North, Volkan Konak. He will always live in our memories with his voice, songs, and the value he added to the Black Sea." Galatasaray SK remarked, "We learned of the passing of our valuable artist Volkan Konak with deep sadness. We offer our condolences to his family, relatives, and loved ones." Beşiktaş JK added, "We have learned with great sadness of the passing of the valuable artist Volkan Konak. We pray for mercy for him and offer our condolences to his family and the art world."
Volkan Konak was also known for his support of various causes, including his recent backing of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu, who is currently imprisoned. He had publicly stated, "Dear Ekrem İmamoğlu, you have always been a gentleman and an honorable person. Those who foul play in politics should be ashamed. You will always remain a precious friend to me, and I will always stand by you." This reflection of his character further endeared him to his fans.
As the Turkish and international music community mourns this great loss, Konak's legacy as a beloved artist and cultural figure will undoubtedly live on through his music and the memories shared by those who cherished him. His sudden passing serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the impact one individual can have on the hearts of many.
