K-pop sensation Park Bo Ram – known for her influential presence in the industry for the past decade – has tragically passed away at the age of 30.
As reported by The Sun, the singer was discovered unconscious at a friend’s residence on Thursday (April 11), prompting immediate efforts to revive her.
The singer was found unresponsive at a friend’s home. Credit: ilgan Sports / Getty
Xanadu Entertainment, Bo Ram’s agency, officially confirmed her untimely demise on Friday (April 12) in South Korea, expressing deep sorrow as they relayed the sudden news to her devoted fan base.
Per Billboard, the agency said that Bo Ram was reportedly working on new music after releasing two new singles earlier this year.
They also confirmed that the K-pop star’s sudden passing has resulted in authorities launching an investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death.
Details provided by the Namyangju Police Station indicate that Bo Ram was socializing at her friend’s residence when the incident occurred. Reportedly, she excused herself to use the restroom but failed to return.
South Korean singer Park Bo Ram has died aged 30. Credit: Han Myung-Gu / Getty
Concerned, her friend went to check on Bo Ram and found her unconscious near the sink. Despite attempts to administer CPR and the prompt arrival of emergency services, Bo Ram was later pronounced dead upon arrival at Hanyang University Guri Hospital.
An autopsy has been requested as part of the investigation to ascertain further details.
At the age of 17, Bo Ram entered the K-pop scene when she took part in the 2010 singing competition series, Super Star K2. Despite her young age, her passion for R&B music propelled her to become one of the youngest – and most beloved – finalists in the competition, ultimately finishing in eighth place.
The singer entered the industry at just 17 years old. Credit: Chung Sung-Jun / Getty
Her official debut in the industry came on August 7, 2014, with the release of her single ‘Beautiful’, featuring renowned rapper Zico. The song quickly ascended to the number 2 spot on South Korea’s local Gaon singles chart.
Park’s remarkable achievement was further recognized when she received the Artist of the Year award for the chart’s top song of August at the 2014 Gaon Chart Music Awards.
Notably, the track and its accompanying music video offered a semi-autobiographical glimpse into Park’s journey towards achieving her own perception of beauty. Detailing her dedication to physical transformation, including rigorous exercise regimens and extreme dieting, Park’s candid portrayal resonated with audiences, highlighting the pressures and sacrifices often associated with the pursuit of perfection in the entertainment industry.
Credit: ilgan Sports/Multi-Bits / Getty
Speaking of her single and the impact it had, she told Elise Hu for the Weekend Edition Sunday show: “I think a lot of people, after listening to this song, were motivated to exercise more, lose weight, and diet.”
Bo Ram is also known for her performances on Korean drama soundtracks like ‘Hyehwadong (or Sangmundong)’, which was used for the K-drama Reply 1988.
Throughout her young career, she has also collaborated with stars such as Eric Nam, Park Kyung, Parc Jae Jung, and Lil Boi.
Most recently, Bo Ram released the single ‘I Miss You’ on April 3 as part of a music cover project. She was reportedly working on an album to commemorate her upcoming 10th anniversary in the music industry.
Our thoughts go out to Bo Ram’s family, friends, and loved ones at this time.