ENTERTAINMENT
Renowned BTS Hanbok Designer Kim Rieul Passes Away at 32
The funeral for Kim Rieul will be held on the morning of the 13th at 9 AM. He will be laid to rest at Namwon Crematorium.
According to the Namwon Police Department in Jeonbuk, a report was received on the evening of the 11th at around 9:10 PM about a person who had fallen in the flowerbed of an apartment in Namwon. Upon arrival, authorities found Kim Rieul already deceased.
Police suspect that Kim Rieul, who had visited his parents in Namwon that day, took his own life. His family has confirmed his passing.
Born in 1993, Kim Rieul began creating modern suits from hanbok fabric in 2016 under the brand 'Rieul.' He gained significant attention in October 2020 when BTS members Jimin, Suga, and J-Hope wore his designs during their 'IDOL' performance on the American talk show 'The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.'
The late designer also collaborated with prestigious brands and institutions such as McLaren, Samsung Galaxy S21, Gyeongju Kolon Hotel, and the Cultural Heritage Administration. Kim was recognized by Forbes as one of the '30 Under 30' influential figures in Asia.
In a forum held last November, Kim expressed his ambition, stating, "I want to confidently say 'Rieul' when asked about high-end Korean brands."
If you or someone you know is struggling with depression or suicidal thoughts, please reach out to a professional for help. In the U.S., you can contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 or text 'HELLO' to 741741 to reach the Crisis Text Line. Both services are available 24/7.
