URGENT UPDATE: Renowned K-Pop music critic Kim Young Dae has tragically passed away at the age of 48. His team announced the heartbreaking news on December 24, 2025 (KST), sending shockwaves through the K-Pop community and beyond.
On Christmas morning, Kim Young Dae’s official social media accounts, including Instagram and X (formerly Twitter), conveyed the sad announcement: “We respectfully inform you of the passing of Kim Young Dae. We apologize for not being able to contact you personally.” This sudden loss has left fans and colleagues deeply affected.
Details surrounding Kim’s passing remain undisclosed, fueling an atmosphere of shock and grief among K-Pop enthusiasts. The production team behind Kim Hyun Jung’s News Show, where Kim was a regular contributor, expressed their condolences through a heartfelt message on their YouTube channel. They stated, “We are deeply shocked by this sudden news,” highlighting the impact he had on the industry.
“After it aired, we received the news of music critic Kim Young Dae’s passing. The production team extends our heartfelt condolences,” the statement read.
Kim Young Dae’s funeral is being held at Chung Ang University Hospital’s funeral hall, with a memorial mass scheduled for December 27 at 10 AM at Heukseok-dong Cathedral. He will be laid to rest at Seoul Memorial Park. This loss marks a significant moment for the K-Pop industry, which has seen an outpouring of tributes and remembrances from fans and fellow critics alike.
In his final appearance, Kim Young Dae recorded a broadcast that aired just before his death, featuring the popular K-Pop group NCT and member Haechan. Fans can still watch this poignant video, which serves as a lasting tribute to his passion and dedication to music criticism.
As the K-Pop community grapples with this devastating news, tributes continue to flood social media, showcasing the profound impact Kim had on music lovers worldwide. Authorities and fans alike are reflecting on his legacy and contributions to the genre.
Stay tuned for further updates as the community mourns this significant loss and celebrates the enduring influence of Kim Young Dae.
