Quick Read
- K-Pop vocalist Lee Min, a member of As One, passed away at 46 on August 5, 2025.
- Lee Min’s career began in 1999, and she was known for soulful ballads and emotional storytelling.
- Her sudden death has shocked fans and the industry; investigations are ongoing.
- Lee Min was active until her passing, recently releasing new music and appearing on TV.
- Her legacy as a trailblazer in K-Pop will be remembered for generations.
The K-pop industry has been shaken to its core by the untimely passing of Lee Min, a vocalist from the iconic duo As One. Lee Min, whose full name was Lee Min-young, was found deceased at her home in Seoul on August 5, 2025. She was only 46 years old. Her agency, BrandNew Music, confirmed the news the following day and urged the public to refrain from speculation as investigations are underway to determine the cause of her death.
A Voice That Defined an Era
Lee Min’s career in music began in 1999 when she debuted as part of the K-pop duo As One alongside her musical soulmate Crystal Chae. Born in Seoul and raised in Los Angeles, Lee Min brought a unique blend of Eastern and Western influences to her music. The duo’s debut album, Day by Day, captivated audiences with its soulful ballads and emotional storytelling. Songs like “Hope You’re the Only One” and “Wish You Wouldn’t Know” quickly earned them a devoted fan base.
Throughout the early 2000s, As One solidified their position in the Korean music industry. Their fourth album, Restoration, released in 2004, showcased their vocal maturity and emotional depth. Despite working in an industry dominated by high-energy dance performances, Lee Min and Crystal focused on authenticity and vocal harmony, creating a refreshing niche for themselves.
Expanding Horizons
In 2012, As One joined BrandNew Music, a label known for its hip-hop and R&B artists. This collaboration introduced the duo to a younger audience and brought them into the fold of contemporary Korean music trends. Their 2013 single, “Want and Resent 2013,” was a notable success, reaching the Top 20 on Korea’s Gaon Digital Chart. Despite these achievements, Lee Min remained true to her roots, continuing to produce music that resonated deeply with fans.
As One took a brief hiatus from 2017 to 2019 to focus on personal endeavors. They made a triumphant return in 2019 with the single “It’s OK Not to Be OK,” a song that addressed real-life issues and reflected their growth as artists. Lee Min’s gentle and comforting voice remained the heart of their music, earning her admiration from fans and peers alike.
Life Beyond Music
Lee Min’s contributions extended beyond the stage. She served as a radio DJ for TBS eFM’s K-Popular, where she and Crystal discussed music industry insights and connected with a global audience. In her later years, Lee Min became a music educator, mentoring young artists and inspiring students with her passion and experience. Her positive energy and nurturing spirit left a lasting impact on everyone she worked with.
Despite her busy schedule, Lee Min continued to release music and collaborate with other artists. In June 2025, she released a new single, “Happy Birthday,” and just a month before her passing, she appeared on The Seasons: Park Bo-gum’s Cantabile, performing alongside rapper Hanhae and comedian Moon Se-yoon. Her performance reminded fans of her enduring charm and talent.
A Sudden Loss
On August 5, 2025, Lee Min’s husband discovered her lifeless body at their home. The couple, who married in 2013 in Hawaii, had shared a decade of love and companionship. Her sudden death has left the K-pop industry and her fans in mourning. Composer Yoon Il-sang, who worked with Lee Min on As One’s debut album, expressed his sorrow, saying, “I will always remember your unique and beautiful voice. Working with you was always a joy.”
Tributes poured in from industry colleagues, including producer Jae Chong, who wrote on social media, “I met Min when she was just 17 with big dreams. She was the most optimistic, positive person I knew. She will be missed dearly.” Crystal Chae, Lee Min’s longtime friend and bandmate, immediately returned to Korea from the United States upon hearing the tragic news.
Lee Min’s wake is being held at Bundang Jesaeng Hospital Funeral Hall Room 1, with visitation starting on August 7. The funeral procession is scheduled for August 9, with her husband serving as the chief mourner. Fans and colleagues have been urged to remember her for her contributions to music and her warm, kind-hearted nature.
Lee Min’s legacy as a trailblazer in K-pop and a bridge between cultures will live on through her music and the countless lives she touched. Rest in peace, Lee Min. Your voice will never be forgotten.