Korean Prodigy Lim Dong Hyek Leaves Suicide Note On Social Media, Authorities Rush To Rescue

World-renowned Korean piano prodigy left the nation shocked after attempting suicide after suddenly revealing his long battle with depression on social media.

At around 7 am on December 16, KST, pianist Lim Dong Hyek uploaded a concerning post on Instagram, which appeared to be a suicide note. In the long, handwritten letter, he confessed that he suffered from severe depression while living his life as a performer and had been taking antidepressants every day since 2015. He went on, saying, “Music was my everything,” and added, “There are materials that will be made public after I am gone,” hinting at an extreme choice.

When acquaintances and internet users saw the post, they contacted the relevant authorities to report it. Around 8:30 am on the same day, police and fire authorities rushed to Lim’s location in Seocho-dong, Seocho District, and rescued the piano prodigy safely. He was immediately taken to a nearby hospital and is reportedly recovering.Lim’s handwritten letter also mentioned conflicts with his ex-wife and multiple other individuals, expressing psychological pain. He also brought up past allegations related to sending obscene messages, denying them vehemently, and confessing that the legal disputes surrounding the matter had become a huge mental burden for him. However, regarding the fine he received for prostitution charges, Lim admitted his wrongdoing and apologized. But he also expressed resentment about the circumstances of the case, complaining of extreme loneliness and depressive symptoms.

Meanwhile, Lim Don Hyek is recognized as a genius pianist in the world of classical music. He gained international fame by placing in all three of the major international music competitions — the Queen Elizabeth Competition, the International Chopin Piano Competition, and the Tchaikovsky International Competition. Lim has won several international accolades and is praised for his emotionally resonant playing. Despite the acknowledgement and awards, Lim has repeatedly talked about his chronic psychological pain and depression. As the news of his suicide attempt and eventual hospitalization spread online, supportive messages poured in from netizens wishing for his speedy recovery.