Lede: It has been 12 years since Kim Ji-hoon, the 38-year-old singer best known as a member of Two Two and the male duo Duke, was found dead at a hotel in Jangchung-dong, Jung-gu, Seoul on December 12, 2013. Acquaintances at the time said he was undergoing treatment for depression and facing financial difficulties.
Fast Facts:
- Death: Found dead on December 12, 2013, in Jangchung-dong, Jung-gu, Seoul.
- Age: 38 at the time of his passing.
- Groups: Debuted with co-ed group Two Two (1994); later formed Duke (2000) with Kim Seokmin.
- Struggles: Reported financial hardship and ongoing treatment for depression; prior legal troubles affected his career.
- Resting place: Interred at Seongnam Youngsaengwon Bundang Sky Castle.
The Legacy
Kim Ji-hoon rose to fame after debuting in 1994 with the co-ed group Two Two, earning recognition with memorable tracks such as “One and a Half” and “Cheating Woman.” In 2000 he re-emerged as one half of Duke alongside Kim Seokmin, marking a second act in his career. His influence is tied to 1990s K-pop nostalgia and the era’s vocal-driven pop ballads.
Top achievements and remembered works:
- Breakthrough hits with Two Two — especially “One and a Half.”
- Formation of Duke in 2000, revitalizing his career with a new sound and partnership.
- Enduring presence in 1990s and early-2000s Korean pop music, remembered by fans for his vocal style and stage presence.
Social Proof: Reactions and Tributes
On the 12th anniversary of his death, fans and peers revisited Kim Ji-hoon’s catalogue and shared photographs, messages and floral tributes online and at his resting place. Korean outlets and social feeds have carried reflective commentaries on his public struggles — from legal setbacks to personal hardship — and many tributes emphasize compassion for mental health issues in the entertainment industry.
This remembrance draws attention to both Kim’s musical contributions and the broader conversation about mental health and support for artists. Reported by Lee Da-gyeom; translated by GripLabs Mingo AI.
Image Referance: https://www.mk.co.kr/en/hot-issues/11490529