A Great Star of the Music Industry Passes Away... Late Hyunmi Leaves Silently

by Lee Yiseul

Published 11 Apr.2023 17:57(KST)

Tearful Funeral Held... Child to Rest in the United States Where They Reside

'Ah, when was that day, it was raining

How am I supposed to soothe this aching longing

When leaving, silently, silently, I go'

(From "When leaving, silently")

Singer Hyunmi (real name Kim Myung-sun) has concluded her 66-year singing career and passed away.

Hyunmi was found collapsed at her home in Ichon-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, around 9:37 a.m. on the 4th by Kim, the president of her fan club. Paramedics who arrived immediately transported her to a nearby hospital, but she was pronounced dead. On the 11th, Hyunmi's farewell ceremony was held at the funeral hall of Seoul Chung-Ang University Hospital, presided over by the president of the Korea Singers Association.

At the funeral ceremony of the late Hyun Mi (real name Kim Myung-sun) held at the funeral hall of Chung-Ang University Hospital in Dongjak-gu, Seoul, her son Lee Young-gon is seen touching her portrait.
[Photo by Joint Press Corps]

The farewell ceremony was hosted by comedian Lee Yong-sik, with Lee Ja-yeon, president of the Korea Singers Association, delivering the eulogy, and singers Park Sang-min and Ali reading memorial speeches. Also attending to bid farewell were the deceased’s relatives, including her nephews No Sa-yeon and Han Sang-jin, as well as colleagues Yang Ji-won, Han Ji-il, and Nam Il-hae.

President Lee Ja-yeon tearfully said, "Our senior who told us to love passionately and live joyfully in this world has now embarked on a journey from which we cannot meet again." She continued, "Among countless stars, she was the most beautiful and brightest star. I hope she becomes an eternally shining star and fulfills her unfinished dreams in heaven."

Lee Yong-sik added, "Hyunmi senior’s 70th debut anniversary concert might become a heavenly concert hosted by Song Hae in the afterlife," deepening the solemnity.

Junior singer Ali said, "She left behind countless immortal masterpieces. We juniors will emulate her achievements in the music industry."

Attendees are singing a funeral dirge at the funeral hall of Chung-Ang University Hospital in Dongjak-gu, Seoul, where the funeral service for the late Hyun Mi (real name Kim Myung-sun) is being held.
[Photo by Joint Press Corps]

Hyunmi’s 1964 song "When Leaving, Silently" was played as a tribute. Following this, family members and funeral committee chairman Seo Soo-nam laid flowers. The deceased’s eldest son, Lee Young-gon, sobbed, "Mom, I’m sorry. Farewell. You must go well," and tears spread throughout the funeral hall.

After the farewell ceremony, Hyunmi is scheduled to rest in peace in the United States, where her two sons reside.

Born in 1938 in Gangdong-gun, South Pyongan Province (now Pyongyang), the late singer debuted in 1957 as part of the Hyun Sisters on the US 8th Army stage and gained popularity in 1962 with the adapted song "Night Mist."

She was regarded as a diva who elevated the dignity of Korean popular music and enjoyed great popularity since the 1960s. She formed a successful duo with the late star composer Lee Bong-jo, producing numerous hit songs. She is survived by her two sons, Lee Young-gon and Young-jun.