Tragic Loss: As One's Lee Min Dead at 46, Cause Under Investigation

Lee Min, half of iconic duo As One, was found dead at 46, with police investigating the cause.
She remained active until her final days, releasing music and appearing on TV just weeks before her death.
Colleagues and fans remember her as a gifted artist and warm soul, leaving behind a legendary musical legacy.

The Korean entertainment industry was left reeling on August 5, 2025, when news broke that Lee Min (born Lee Min Young), one-half of the legendary R&B duo As One, had been found dead in her home at the age of 46. The shocking discovery, made by her husband, sent waves of grief through the music community, where Lee Min had been a respected and beloved figure for over two decades. Authorities immediately launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding her sudden passing, but details remain scarce, leaving fans and colleagues grasping for answers.

What makes this loss even more devastating is how vibrant and engaged Lee Min had been in both her personal and professional life up until her final days. Just weeks before her death, she had released new music, appeared on television, and continued her work as a music instructor—making her abrupt departure all the more difficult to process. The public’s outpouring of grief has been immense, with tributes pouring in from fellow artists, students, and fans who grew up listening to her soulful voice.

Remembering Lee Min

Those who knew Lee Min personally have painted a picture of a woman who radiated positivity, dedication, and kindness. Fellow singer Kim Hyun-sung, visibly shaken by the news, took to social media to express his grief in a raw, emotional post.

“What's the big deal about reasons now? Just... Min, you were such a good person. You were always bright, cheerful, and kind.” 

Her words carried the weight of regret, as she added, 

“I wanted to contact you once… I shouldn’t have hesitated… I already miss your smile and laughter.” 

Her tribute resonated deeply, as it reflected the sentiments of many who knew Lee Min—not just as an artist, but as a warm, genuine soul.

Even her former bandmate, Crystal Chae, who had been living in the U.S., immediately made plans to return to Korea upon hearing the tragic news. The bond between the two singers, forged over years of collaboration, was unshakable—and Chae’s swift return speaks volumes about the impact Lee Min had on those closest to her.

The Ongoing Investigation: What We Know So Far

As of now, the exact cause of Lee Min’s death remains undisclosed, with police stating that their investigation is still underway. Initial reports confirmed that her husband discovered her at their home on the evening of August 5, but no further details about the circumstances have been released. Authorities have been tight-lipped, likely to avoid speculation before all facts are gathered.

Her agency, Brand New Music, released a statement urging the public to refrain from conjecture.

“The police are conducting an investigation. We ask for your understanding and patience until official results are revealed.” 

This cautious approach is understandable, given the sensitive nature of the case and the potential for misinformation to spread rapidly in the age of social media.

One key question lingering in the minds of fans is whether there were any prior signs of distress. Those close to Lee Min insist that she had been in good spirits, actively working on music and teaching until the very end. However, the entertainment industry is no stranger to hidden struggles, and the pressure of maintaining a decades-long career can take an unseen toll. Until the investigation concludes, the truth remains unknown—but what is certain is that the world has lost an extraordinary talent far too soon.

Despite debuting in 1999, Lee Min never faded into obscurity. Alongside Crystal Chae, she kept As One relevant through the years, releasing music that resonated with both older fans and new listeners. Their most recent single, “Happy Birthday to You” (June 2025), was a nostalgic yet fresh addition to their discography, proving that their musical chemistry was as strong as ever.

Beyond recording, Lee Min remained a visible presence in the industry, appearing on KBS 2TV’s The Seasons: Park Bo Gum’s Cantabile in July. Her performance there was met with praise, showcasing her enduring vocal prowess and stage presence. Additionally, she balanced her music career with her role as a music instructor, dedicating time to mentoring the next generation of artists—a testament to her passion for nurturing talent.

For those who came of age in the late ‘90s and early 2000s, As One was synonymous with smooth, emotive R&B. The duo, consisting of Lee Min and Crystal Chae, debuted with their album Day by Day in 1999 and quickly became one of Korea’s most beloved vocal acts. Tracks like “For You I Long and Resent,” “Don’t Be Silly,” and “Am I the One Who Should Apologize?” remain timeless classics, their harmonies still evoking deep emotion decades later.

What set As One apart was their authenticity. In an era where pop and dance dominated, they stayed true to their R&B roots, earning respect for their technical skill and emotional delivery. Lee Min, in particular, was praised for her rich, warm tone—a voice that could convey both heartbreak and joy with equal power.

Offstage, Lee Min led a relatively private life. She married her husband, a former office worker, in a Hawaii ceremony in 2013, and while she avoided the spotlight when it came to her personal affairs, those who knew her described her as deeply caring and humble. Her absence leaves a void not just in music, but in the lives of those she touched.

Lee Min’s sudden passing is a reminder of how fragile life can be—especially for those who bring so much light into the world. Her music, her kindness, and her unwavering dedication to her craft have left an indelible mark on Korean R&B. As fans and colleagues mourn, they also celebrate the joy and beauty she brought into their lives.

While the investigation continues, one thing is certain: Lee Min’s voice will live on. Whether through her timeless songs, the students she inspired, or the memories shared by those who loved her, her legacy is eternal. Rest in peace, Lee Min—your song may have ended, but your melody lingers.

Source: Chosun, AllKpop, Hauterrfly, newsbytesapp