URGENT UPDATE: Renowned K-Pop music critic Kim Young Dae has died at the age of 48, leaving the K-Pop community in shock. His passing was announced early on December 25, 2025 (KST) via his official social media accounts, including Instagram and X (formerly Twitter).
The news broke on Christmas morning, prompting an outpouring of grief from fans and colleagues alike. Kim Young Dae was celebrated for his deep understanding and critique of the K-Pop industry, and his sudden death has left many searching for answers. His team released a statement saying, “We respectfully inform you of the passing of Kim Young Dae. We apologize for not being able to contact you personally.”
As details about the circumstances surrounding his death remain undisclosed, the production team of Kim Hyun Jung’s News Show, which featured a pre-recorded segment with him just last week, expressed their condolences on their YouTube channel. They stated, “We are deeply shocked by this sudden news.”
Fans are encouraged to watch Kim’s last video, featuring NCT member Haechan, available on social media platforms to remember his impactful contributions to music criticism.
The funeral will be held at Chung Ang University Hospital’s funeral hall. A memorial mass is scheduled for December 27 at 10 AM at Heukseok-dong Cathedral, followed by his burial at Seoul Memorial Park.
As the K-Pop community mourns this tremendous loss, many are reflecting on Kim Young Dae’s legacy and the influence he had on the genre. His insights and critiques shaped the understanding of K-Pop for both fans and industry insiders.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops. The impact of Kim Young Dae’s passing resonates deeply, not just in South Korea, but worldwide, as fans and fellow critics come together to honor his memory.
