URGENT UPDATE: Renowned K-Pop music critic Kim Young Dae has tragically passed away at the age of 48 on December 24, 2025, sending shockwaves through the K-Pop community. The news broke early Christmas morning as Kim’s team confirmed his passing via social media platforms, including Instagram and X (formerly Twitter).
In an official statement shared on his accounts, Kim’s team expressed their condolences, stating, “We respectfully inform you of the passing of Kim Young Dae. We apologize for not being able to contact you personally.” Fans and colleagues alike are mourning the loss of a beloved figure who played a pivotal role in shaping K-Pop commentary and critique.
Details surrounding the circumstances of his sudden passing remain undisclosed, leaving fans in disbelief. The production team behind Kim Hyun Jung’s News Show expressed their shock and sadness through their YouTube channel, stating, “On the 25th, after it aired, we received the news of music critic Kim Young Dae’s passing. We are deeply shocked by this sudden news.”
Kim Young Dae’s funeral will be 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.
As fans reflect on his impactful career, Kim’s last video featuring NCT’s Haechan is available for viewing, serving as a poignant reminder of his contributions to the K-Pop scene.
This devastating news emphasizes the deep connections within the K-Pop community and the profound influence critics like Kim Young Dae have on artists and fans alike. The industry mourns the loss of a voice that consistently celebrated and critiqued the evolving landscape of K-Pop.
Stay tuned for further updates as more information becomes available.
