Renowned pianist Lim Dong-hyeok, 41, caused concern after posting a message on his social media that hinted at self-harm, prompting police intervention.
According to reports on the 16th, the Seoul Seocho Police Station received a report at around 8:30 AM expressing concern for Lim's safety. Officers were dispatched to the scene and found Lim in Seocho-dong, Seoul, where they successfully rescued him. He was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment and is reportedly in stable condition.
Prior to the rescue, Lim posted a heartfelt message on his social media around 7 AM, expressing his struggles with severe depression throughout his career as a pianist. He wrote, "I have been suffering from severe depression throughout my life as a performer. I was happy and grateful because of you all." The post was interpreted as a sign of potential self-harm, raising alarms.
Lim is celebrated for his achievements in the world's top three piano competitions: Chopin, Tchaikovsky, and Queen Elisabeth. He is recognized as the first classical musician in Korea to garner a significant fan base.
Meanwhile, Lim has been on trial for violating the Prostitution Punishment Act. He was charged with engaging in prostitution at a massage parlor in Gangnam, Seoul, in 2020, and was fined 1 million won in a first trial verdict in September.
※ If you or someone you know is struggling with depression or suicidal thoughts, please reach out to the suicide prevention hotline at ☎109 or the 'Madeleine' suicide prevention SNS counseling service for 24-hour expert support.
Reported by Min-kyung Lee, TENASIA 2min_ror@tenasia.co.kr