Famous Korean Performer Posts Emotional Last Letter After Prostitution Allegations, Is Saved By Police
Content Warning
Renowned pianist Lim Dong Hyek posted a message on his social media hinting at taking his own life, prompting police to respond.
On December 16, Seoul Seocho Police Station announced that they had received a report around 8.30 am. expressing concern for Lim’s safety. Officers were dispatched and located Lim at a site in Seocho-dong, rescuing him. He is currently being treated at a nearby hospital, and his life is reportedly not in danger.
Earlier that morning, Lim had posted what seemed to be a suicide note on social media.
Everything is my mistake and due to my carelessness. But please believe me. Although I may be vulgar and unrefined in many ways, my music is not. I hope for everyone’s happiness and I was happy all this while thanks to you guys. Thank you. I love you so much.
12/16, 5.35am.
Lim Dong Hyek
Lim Dong Hyek is known as one of Korea’s most celebrated classical musicians, having placed in three of the world’s top piano competitions.
In 2020, he was investigated for allegedly engaging in prostitution with a female massage worker at a massage parlor in Gangnam. Last December, he received a fine through summary indictment, but he contested the ruling and proceeded with a formal trial. This past September, he was sentenced to a ₩1.00 million KRW (about $681 USD) fine for violating the Act on the Punishment of Arranging Sexual Traffic (prostitution).
