The K-Pop Idol Allegedly Murdered By His Girlfriend

Nearly three decades ago, the sudden death of a rising solo artist sent shockwaves through the Korean entertainment industry. Kim Sung Jae, once part of the influential hip-hop duo Deux, passed away at just 23, only a day after his solo debut.

Deux, formed in 1993 by Lee Hyun Do and Kim Sung Jae, quickly rose to fame for their innovative style and stage presence. After releasing three successful albums, the pair parted ways to pursue individual careers. Not long after launching his solo journey, Kim Sung Jae was found lifeless in his hotel room. The initial cause of death was cited as Sudden Manhood Death Syndrome, but inconsistencies quickly raised suspicions. The discovery of 28 needle marks on his right arm, despite him being right-handed, sparked deeper investigation. Toxicology reports later revealed traces of animal anesthetic in his bloodstream, shifting the case from a suspected overdose to a criminal inquiry.

At the time, attention turned to a woman who had dated Kim Sung Jae for two years. Authorities disclosed that the two had recently ended their relationship via phone, and suspicion grew that she may have had a motive to harm him. Investigators claimed the woman had obtained syringes, animal anesthetics, and magnesium sulfate from a local veterinary clinic. She allegedly injected him repeatedly under the guise of offering a recovery treatment after a performance.

In court, she denied the accusations, stating her intent was to use the substances for a suicide attempt after failing dental exams, though she claimed to have later discarded them. Initially, she received a death sentence, but the conviction was overturned after a key witness retracted testimony, citing memory loss. With insufficient evidence, the case was dismissed—leaving behind lingering doubts and unresolved questions.

In 2019, public curiosity surged again when a major network planned a documentary exploring the circumstances of his death. However, the woman filed an injunction to block its airing. The court ultimately ruled in her favor, arguing the broadcast would not serve public interest. Still, the move stirred public anger, with petitions and tips flooding in as many demanded transparency.

Today, the woman lives a quiet life reportedly working as a dentist and married to a physician. Unverified rumors suggest she underwent significant plastic surgery, changed her name, and shut down her clinic after being identified by fans. Others allege her family holds notable social influence, with her mother running a luxury hotel. Decades later, the mystery surrounding Kim Sung Jae’s death remains unsolved, a haunting legacy in the history of K-pop.