It has only been several weeks into 2025, yet the entertainment industry is in mourning because of the loss of several notable figures recently. With the sudden passing of Barbie Hsu (徐熙媛), it reminds us to value the people in our lives more deeply, as we can never predict when they might no longer be with us.
Over the first week of February, several beloved celebrities have passed away. From legendary musicians to acclaimed actors, here is a list of those we have sadly lost:
1. Barbie Hsu (徐熙媛)
The world recently has been shocked by the tragic news of the Taiwanese actress Barbie Hsu (徐熙媛), who passed away on 2nd February (Sunday) at the age of 48. The devastating news was revealed by her sister Dee Hsu (徐熙娣) stated that the late star passed away due to influenza after a family trip to Japan. She was known for her roles in the infamous Taiwanese drama “Meteor Garden” and “Mars”.
More on the drama surrounding her death here.
2. Oh Sung Hoon (오성훈)
The renowned South Korean rapper and songwriter Oh Sung Hoon (오성훈) passed away on 3rd February (Monday) at the age of 46. According to reports, the former member of the boyband “People Crew” was found deceased at the studio early morning in the morning. One of many of his notable hits are “Love 119” by K.Will and “Please Remember All My Days and That Time” by Gummy. Sung Hoon was known for his distinctive style and collaborations with several influential artists in the K-pop industry, including K.Will, Gummy, and Lee Hyori.
3. Lee Joo-sil (이주실)
“Squid Game 2” actress Lee Joo Sil (이주실), was found deceased in her home on the morning of Sunday, 2nd February 2025. The devastating news was confirmed by her agency her talent agency, 1230Culture, stating the late celebrity passed away due to stomach cancer, and Lee had been fighting the illness since receiving the diagnosis in November 2024. Her funeral service was held at Severance Hospital in Sinchon, Seoul, on 5th February 2025 (Wednesday). The South Korean veteran actress was famously known for her role in global hits such as “Squid Game 2”, “Train To Busan” and “The Uncanny Encounter”.
4. Marianne Faithfull
The music world is mourning the loss of an iconic singer and songwriter, Marianne Faithfull. The London-born singer passed away at the age of 78, marking the end of an era. She was known for her distinctive voice and her influence in the rock and pop scene. Her spokesperson shared a statement, writing, “Marianne passed away peacefully in London today, in the company of her loving family.” The British singer rose to fame in the 1960s with hits like “As Tears Go By” and became a symbol of the era’s counterculture. Despite facing personal challenges, she remained a beloved icon, inspiring generations with her strength and artistry.
5. Kim Woong Seo (김웅서)
On 3rd February (Monday), the Korean entertainment industry was shocked by the sudden death of Kim Woong Seon at the age of 38. The popular South Korean YouTuber was reported passed away due to an accident through his younger brother’s Instagram post that reads, “Kim Woong Seo, who was always full of energy, passed away today (3rd February) due to an accident and has embarked on a long journey to heaven, where we can no longer hold hands. My brother, who seemed strong but was more delicate than anyone else. I would appreciate it if you could remember him deeply in your hearts for a long time so that his final journey is not lonely.” He was known for his lifestyle and health content on YouTube with more than 120,000 subscribers.
6. Ruriko Kojima (小島 瑠璃子)’s Husband
Ruriko Kojima, a renowned Japanese television personality is mourning the sudden loss of her husband, who passed away at the age of 29. She shared a deeply emotional post on Instagram stating, “On 4th February, my husband passed away at the age of 29. Regarding the cause of his passing, I will refrain from providing details. I apologize for not being able to offer further explanation despite the commotion. I hope you can understand.” The 31-year-old shared that her late husband was family-oriented, kind and responsible.
7. Roslan Saleh
Veteran Malaysian actor Roslan Saleh was reported passed away at his residence at Masjid Tanah, Melaka on 7th February 2025 (Friday). His daughter confirmed the news in a statement, “It is with great sadness that I announce my father, Roslan Saleh, has just passed away” she wrote. Known for his role in “Munafik 2” and “KL Special Force”, the late actor passed away at the age of 69 after battling chronic diabetes. With over 30 years in the movie industry, Roslan was a beloved figure in Malaysian cinema and television, known for his versatile acting and charismatic presence.
Sources: The Korea Times, Tokyo Reporter, Instagram, Twitter (1)(2)
Nakhla Sabrina contributed to this article
