Hyun Cheol, a celebrated trot singer famously known for his chart-topping song “Garden Balsam Love,” has passed away at the age of 82 due to a chronic illness, as confirmed by his close friend on Tuesday.
Composer Jeong Won-su, who had previously served as Hyun Cheol’s manager, announced the singer’s demise, stating that Hyun Cheol breathed his last on Monday afternoon.
Born Kang Sang-soo in 1942, Hyun Cheol embarked on his singing career at the age of 27 with the debut track “My Heartless Love.” Despite initial challenges, he gradually gained recognition in the music industry, achieving breakthrough success with hits like “I Think of You Whenever I Sit or Stand” and “Love Is Like a Butterfly.”
Hyun Cheol’s career reached its pinnacle during the late 1980s and early 1990s. His song “Garden Balsam Love,” released in 1988, earned him the grand prize at the KBS’ year-end music awards in 1989, marking a significant milestone in his musical journey. The following year, he repeated this achievement with “Not Anymore,” further solidifying his place in the hearts of music lovers.
In recent years, Hyun Cheol battled health issues, having undergone surgery for a cervical spinal disc problem that resulted in neural damage, necessitating prolonged medical care.
Hyun Cheol is survived by his son and daughter.
Related topics:
TOP 10 BEST COUNTRY MUSIC SINGERS OF ALL TIME
10 COUNTRY MUSIC STARS WHO FELL