As One's Lee Min Passes Away at 47: Police Investigate Cause of Death

Lee Min, a member of the female duo As One, has passed away at the age of 47, with police currently investigating the cause of death.

According to Lee Min's agency, Brand New Music, the investigation into her death and its cause is ongoing. A representative stated, "We understand that it has not yet been concluded."

Lee Min passed away on the 5th. Her memorial is set up at Room 1 of the Bundang Jesaeng Hospital Funeral Hall in Seongnam, Gyeonggi Province. The funeral will take place on the 9th at 5:30 AM, and she will be laid to rest at Yongin Forest of Peace. Her husband is listed as the chief mourner.

The agency expressed, "The sudden news of Lee Min's passing has left her family and all employees of Brand New Music in great shock and sorrow," adding, "In accordance with the family's wishes, the funeral will be held quietly. We would appreciate your prayers for her peaceful rest."

The unexpected death has prompted an outpouring of condolences from the music industry. Composer Yoon Il-sang shared the jacket photo of As One's debut album 'Day By Day,' reminiscing, "I will always remember your unique and beautiful voice. Working with you was always a joy. Rest in peace, Rest in music." Yoon Il-sang had a long-standing collaboration with As One, working on hits like 'You Only Don't Know' and 'Dan.'

Singer Kim Hyun-sung also expressed his grief, saying, "At this point, reasons don't matter. Min, you were such a good person, always bright, cheerful, and kind," adding, "I wanted to reach out... I shouldn't have hesitated. I already miss your smile and laughter."

A staff member who worked with Lee Min shared a photo with her, recalling, "During the 10 years with As One, Min-young always embraced me warmly, like a real sister, not a celebrity. She always took care of us first, greeting us with a bright smile and a hug every time we met."

Crystal, the other member of As One residing in the U.S., is expected to return to Korea promptly to attend the memorial.

Lee Min had recently resumed her activities, releasing a new song 'Happy Birthday' in June. In May, she appeared on KBS 2TV's music program 'The Seasons - Park Bo-gum's Cantabile,' marking her return to the broadcast stage after three years. During the show, As One performed various hit songs, evoking nostalgia among the audience and viewers, and received positive feedback. Lee Min, in particular, impressed with her unchanged vocals and emotional delivery.

Debuting in 1999 as part of the duo As One, Lee Min was beloved for numerous hits including 'Want and Resent,' 'Day By Day,' 'No Way,' and 'Should I Be Sorry.' In 2013, she married a Korean office worker two years her senior in Hawaii.