Model Kim Jong-seok, who appeared in the entertainment show ‘Skip’, sad news… 29 years old

Kim Jong-seok. Photo | Kim Jong-seok SNSIt has been reported that Kim Jong-seok, known as the ‘Da-shu’ model, has passed away. The cause of death is unknown. He was 29 years old.

According to Newsis on the 6th, Kim Jong-seok passed away on the 4th. The funeral was held at 8 am on the 6th, and the burial site is Yanggu Bong-an Park in Chuncheon Ansikwon.

Kim Jong-seok’s obituary was delivered through an SNS post by acquaintance A on the 5th. A wrote, “When I heard the news that you left us yesterday, my heart was shattered,” and “Kim Jong-seok, I will always miss you. I will keep you in my heart for the rest of my life.”

Another acquaintance B posted a photo of a condolence wreath and said, “I still can’t believe it. I hope you are at peace there without pain.”

The deceased’s SNS account was changed to private this morning. Netizens are continuing to pay tribute in the comments section of the deceased’s YouTube post.

Born in 1995, Kim Jong-seok debuted as a shopping mall model in 2014 and has been active in the beauty and fashion industries.

Kim Jong-seok, who later worked as a model for the men’s cosmetics brand Dashu, became known through YouTube shorts videos. He also appeared on the tvN entertainment show ‘Skip’.

[Ji Seung-hoon, Star Today Reporter]

🌟 BREAKING: Young Model Kim Jong‑Suk Dies Suddenly at 29 — Funeral Held, Friends in Tears, Mystery Surrounds His Untimely Death

June 8, 2025 — The South Korean entertainment world trembled this week with the tragic announcement that 29‑year‑old model and reality TV star Kim Jong‑Suk has passed away. According to multiple reports, including his family’s official confirmation, Kim died on June 4, 2025, and his funeral was quietly held two days later—on June 6 at 8 AM KST—at Maru Park Funeral Home in Hanam‑si, Gyeonggi Province .

Bare Facts, Heartbroken Family

In a brief yet emotionally charged statement posted on social media, Kim’s sister expressed profound grief. She urged the public to “stop spreading baseless rumors” and allow the grieving family space and dignity during this painful time. The cause of Kim’s death remains undisclosed, intensifying speculation and prompting widespread concern.

Shockwaves Ripple Through Industry & Fans

Kim burst into public consciousness in 2014, modeling for online shopping platforms before gaining wider recognition as a face of the men’s grooming brand DASHU. His charismatic presence crossed over into TV in 2022, when he joined tvN’s dating reality show Skip Dating, hosted by Yoo Jae‑Suk, Jeon So‑Min, and Nucksal.

He continued posting on Instagram until just days before his passing. In the aftermath of the news, that same platform overflowed with heartfelt condolences—until the account was made private by the family on June 6.

A Friend’s Heartbreaking Farewell

The first glimmers of the tragedy surfaced online on June 5, when a close friend shared an emotional tribute:

“My bro… My heart shattered into pieces when I was informed that you were gone. I still can’t believe that I’ll never be able to see your smiling face again… You may no longer be with us, but you were a great gift to this world… I will always hold you in my heart. I’ll miss you. I’ll always love you.”

Another friend posted a photo of a funeral wreath, captioning it:

“I still can’t believe it… I hope you’re at peace now, free from pain.”

These raw, sorrowful revelations paint a portrait of a young man whose presence touched many—both professionally and personally.

Mystery and Speculation: The Silent Question of Cause

Despite the family’s plea for privacy and request to cease rumor‑mongering, online speculation continues to simmer. Some threads suggest possible connections to recent local incidents in Hanam, which remain unverified and unsubstantiated. To date, no official statement or medical confirmation regarding cause of death has been provided—only the family’s insistence that any malicious or defamatory rumors will be addressed legally.

Funeral & Final Farewell

On June 6, at 8 AM KST, close family, friends, and select industry colleagues attended the intimate funeral service at Maru Park Funeral Home in Hanam‑si. Kim’s body was then laid to rest at Chuncheon Rest Garden and Yanggu Memorial Park—a resting place chosen with care and respect.

Rising Star, Bright Future — Suddenly Dimmed

At just 29, Kim’s trajectory was on a steep ascent. He symbolized a fresh wave in Korean entertainment—part model, part social influencer, part reality show star. His final series of Instagram posts, made merely three days before his death, revealed his excitement for upcoming projects.

Now, fans are left grappling with what might have been—a new generation voice, silenced prematurely.

Industry and Fan Reaction

Tributes poured in across social media and entertainment forums. Leading K‑drama stars, fellow Skip Dating cast members, stylist collaborators, and ordinary fans shared sentiments of disbelief:

“He brought light wherever he went… I can’t believe he’s gone.”

Even hosts Yoo Jae‑Suk and Jeon So‑Min reportedly expressed their shock and sadness; a source close to the show told us that production was paused as a mark of respect.

Looking Ahead: Closure, Justice, or Still Questions

With the public waiting, several developments could bring clarity:

The family has indicated they will release “a summary of police records” and statements from individuals close to Kim to address misinformation.

A police investigation may confirm cause of death, potentially quelling rampant speculation—rumors of suicide, foul play, or accident have circulated, but remain unconfirmed .

Fans and mental‑health advocates in South Korea’s entertainment sphere are calling for transparency and better support systems to help young talent cope with pressures.

Spotlight: Why Kim Jong‑Suk’s Death Matters

Modern Model Archetype
Kim broke from traditional runway norms—emerging initially from e‑commerce platforms, he symbolized the digital-native model class. His success with DASHU and viral short‑form content made him a familiar face to Millennials and Gen Z,

Reality-TV Crossover
His leap into Skip Dating marked a significant trend: the blending of modeling, social media, and mass‑media entertainment. He resonated with audiences who embraced his charisma and authenticity .

The Pressure Cooker of Fame
His abrupt disappearance adds to growing concerns about the welfare of young talents in Korea’s entertainment machine, where rising stars often face intense scrutiny, overwork, and mental-health stigma.

In Their Own Words

“Kim was always full of energy… a ray of light in the chaos of show business,” shared one unnamed colleague working behind the scenes of Skip Dating.

“We saw him just three days ago—he was making plans, talking about next steps. It’s heartbreaking,” confided a friend who visited him in late May.

Conclusion: A Stardom Silenced, Questions Remaining

The life and death of Kim Jong‑Suk—though lived briefly—made a lasting imprint on South Korea’s entertainment culture. His career trajectory embodied the digital-savvy new generation of celebrities, those who straddle modeling, TV, online fame, and personal branding.

As grief still lingers and many ache for answers, the family’s promise of transparency could bring closure. But until the facts come to light, speculation will continue. What remains undeniable is the silence left where his life and voice once flourished.

What to Watch: Next Developments

Official family release of any police statements or transcripts.

Outcome of legal action against false rumors.

Comments or tributes from mainstream stars and agencies.

Confirmation or revelations concerning mental health support or systemic reforms.