Influencer Lee Hee-cheol Passes Away Unexpectedly

Influencer Lee Hee-cheol has tragically passed away. On January 7, fellow influencer 풍자 shared the heartbreaking news on her personal Instagram story, stating, "I can hardly believe this as I write, but for those who loved my brother and haven't heard the news yet, my beloved brother Lee Hee-cheol from Seoul Salon has become a star in the sky today." She continued, "Please pray that he goes to a good place. This is so sudden, and many acquaintances have yet to be informed. If you need my contact information, please DM me for details about the funeral home."

Lee Hee-cheol, known for his appearances on various shows alongside 풍자, was an influencer, CEO of a restaurant business, photographer, and visual director. He gained significant attention in 2023 when he joined the cast of KBS2TV's 'Salim Namja-deul Season 2,' captivating viewers with his charm.

During his time on the show, he showcased an impressive collection of cosmetics, humorously claiming, "With this makeup, I’ve been called the 'Apujeong Go Yoon-jung.' It’s elegant and sophisticated, just like me." He also shared the struggles he faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, revealing, "It was incredibly tough. I've been running my business in Apgujeong for nine years, and all the surrounding shops have closed down. I managed to survive thanks to 풍자."

However, it seems he had been silently battling personal challenges recently. As the new year approached, he posted on his social media, reflecting on the difficulties of 2024, stating, "It was a year filled with struggles for my health and mental well-being. I know that pain brings growth, and I believe I can overcome this with humility and strength."

Despite his positive outlook, he ultimately became a star in the sky, leaving behind a poignant message of gratitude for the challenges he faced.

If you or someone you know is struggling with depression or difficult thoughts, please reach out to the suicide prevention hotline at 109 or seek help through the online counseling service, 마들랜 (Madlen), available 24/7.