Model Kim Jong-seok Dies at 29, Family Addresses Rumors

Model 김종석 (Kim Jong-seok) has tragically passed away at the age of 29 on June 4, 2025. The exact cause of his death remains unknown. News of his passing was shared through heartfelt tributes from friends. One close friend expressed their sorrow on social media, stating, "My bro... I was shattered when I heard you left us. I still can't believe I won't see your smiling face again. You were a great gift to this world, and I will cherish you forever. I will always miss and love you, 김종석."

Another friend shared a photo of a condolence wreath, saying, "I still can't believe it... I hope you find peace without pain in that place." As these messages circulated, rumors about 김종석's death began to spread, eventually confirming the tragic news as fans were shocked, especially since he had been active on social media just three days prior.

However, alongside the mourning, speculation regarding his personal life began to emerge. Coincidentally, on the same day, a news report detailed an incident in Hanam, Gyeonggi Province, where a young man in his twenties committed suicide after a domestic disturbance involving his girlfriend. Some netizens speculated that this individual was 김종석, leading to harmful comments directed at him. In response, his social media accounts were suddenly set to private on June 6, likely due to the family's concerns over the rumors.

In a lengthy post, 김종석's sister addressed the misinformation circulating in online communities, stating, "The family is suffering greatly from the false narratives about 종석. We had chosen not to respond earlier, hoping he had gone to a better place, but we never anticipated such absurd rumors would spread. This is not true." She mentioned plans to release police recordings and statements from friends to clarify the situation and urged people to stop spreading negativity, asking for the removal of harmful posts.

She also shared a message she sent to the person spreading rumors, expressing her shock at their comments during such a sensitive time. She emphasized the need to correct the misinformation and requested that the individual retract their statements.

Currently, the post has been deleted, and 김종석's sister later explained that she was overwhelmed and unintentionally deleted her previous message.

김종석 was a well-known model in the beauty and fashion industry, recognized for his work with the male beauty brand Dasu. He gained popularity through YouTube Shorts and appeared on the tvN dating show 'Skip' in 2022. His funeral was held at Maru Park in Hanam, with the burial taking place at Chuncheon Anshikwon - Yanggu Memorial Park on June 6 at 8 AM.