Remembering Hyeon-cheol: A Year Since the Passing of Korea's Beloved Trot Legend

It has been a year since the passing of Hyeon-cheol, the beloved Korean trot singer who played a pivotal role in popularizing the genre. Tributes continue to pour in for the late artist.

Hyeon-cheol passed away on July 16, 2024, at the age of 82.

He debuted in 1966 with 'Heartless You' and, after a long period of obscurity, gained widespread recognition in 1989 by winning the KBS Music Award with 'Bongseonhwa Yeonjeong.' He became a prominent trot star of the 1990s with numerous hits like 'I Don't Like It' and 'Name Tag of Love.'

His funeral was held as a national singer's funeral in South Korea, a first of its kind without a specific organization but with the participation of multiple entertainment associations, highlighting his esteemed status. President Yoon Suk-yeol and Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Yoo In-chon sent wreaths to pay their respects. Singers like Jang Yoon-jeong, Lim Young-woong, Park Gu-yoon, and Kim Soo-chan also mourned his passing.

Hyeon-cheol's health had deteriorated following cervical disc surgery, leading to a prolonged battle with illness. He was reportedly unable to attend the funerals of broadcaster Song Hae and singer Hyun-mi due to his condition.

On the first anniversary of his passing, fans and fellow artists remember Hyeon-cheol as a "great star of the music industry" and an "eternal trot legend." His music and heartfelt teachings continue to resonate on stages and in the hearts of his successors. Fans took to social media and online communities to express their longing, with messages like "We miss you" and "Tears fall every time I hear 'Bongseonhwa Yeonjeong.'"

Hyeon-cheol rests in peace at the 'Hyu Memorial Park' in Namyangju, Gyeonggi Province.

Reported by Choi Ji-ye, Ten Asia, wisdomart@tenasia.co.kr