The influential legacy and sudden passing of Korea's 'Demon King,' Shin Hae-chul, were highlighted recently.
On the October 5th episode of KBS2's 'Celebrity Soldier's Secret,' Oh My Girl's Hyojung and writer/music critic Bae Soon-tak reminisced about Shin Hae-chul's musical innovations and personal charm. Bae shared the backstory of the iconic song 'To You,' revealing that Shin composed it under a blanket with a melodica, defying his family's objections.
An anecdote was shared about Shin Hae-chul promising a 'full refund' and removing a disruptive fan during a performance. Lee Chan-won drew attention by channeling Shin's anger, shouting, "Get out now!" Bae explained, "In a past interview, Shin said, 'If I don't do this, I can't protect what I love. I become a fighting rooster to protect it.'" He further described Shin's charisma, noting that fans jokingly referred to his concerts as 'paying to be dominated.'
Debuting with the band 'Infinite Track,' Shin Hae-chul later formed the band N.EX.T after a solo career. He was a pioneer in the Korean music scene, introducing 'MIDI composition' and 'in-ear monitors.' Shin generously shared his self-taught MIDI techniques with younger artists like Seo Taiji, Psy, and Kim Dong-ryul.
Notably, Shin set an unprecedented record as Korea's first 'unpaid DJ,' using the freedom to pursue bold endeavors. He hosted radio shows in unconventional locations and created the 'Indie Band Chart' to support emerging artists like Broccoli, You Too?, Peppertones, and Jang Ki-ha and the Faces. He was also vocal about social issues and the struggles of youth, earning widespread admiration.
The episode also delved into the circumstances surrounding Shin Hae-chul's death, which occurred as he was preparing for a comeback album after a six-year hiatus due to being blacklisted by the National Intelligence Service. 'Dr. MC' Lee Nak-jun explained Shin's initial diagnosis of 'intestinal stenosis,' likening it to 'stuck dumplings.' Lee questioned the surgeon's decision to perform a 'gastric reduction surgery' for cosmetic reasons without Shin's consent.
Despite taking narcotic painkillers post-surgery, Shin's severe abdominal pain persisted and spread to his chest. The surgeon, relying on an ECG test, prescribed more painkillers. Tragically, Shin was found collapsed in a hospital restroom and passed away suddenly. The National Forensic Service reported 'peritonitis and pericarditis, leading to sepsis' as the cause of death, with perforations found in his small intestine and heart's pericardium, indicating medical malpractice. The discovery of 'sesame seeds' in the pericardium was particularly shocking.
The surgeon involved in Shin's case was sentenced to prison for another medical malpractice incident during the trial, with five patients having died under his care, causing outrage. Lee Chan-won expressed his anger, asking, "Are people experimental subjects?"
Bae Soon-tak concluded by quoting lyrics from one of Shin's final songs, 'The Only Promise,' highlighting Shin's plea for his loved ones to 'not get hurt.' Jang Do-yeon also shared a touching moment from last year's 'College Music Festival,' where she met Shin's children as an MC.
Tae Yuna, Ten Asia Reporter youyou@tenasia.co.kr