Kim Rieul, a Korean fashion designer famed for dressing Kpop superstars including BTS, has tragically died at the age of 32.
He was found dead in a flower bed on Tuesday night in the South Korean city of Namwon-si, according to local reports.
Local police are investigating his sudden death but have stated that there ‘does not appear to be any suspicion of a crime’, according to local media reports. Rieul’s family confirmed the heartbreaking news in a statement today, saying: ‘It is true that Kim Rieul passed away yesterday’.
The designer’s untimely passing has sent shockwaves through the Kpop community, as he was known for creating stunning handbok designs worn by some of Korea’s biggest pop stars, such as BTS and Monsta X.
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The late fashion maestro first turned heads in 2016 when he ingeniously infused Korean traditional art into his contemporary designs. His star truly began to ascend in 2020 when he crafted suits, inspired by traditional Korean formal wear, for BTS superstars Jimin, J-Hope and Suga.
The boy band donned these unique creations during their performance at Seoul’s historic Gyeongbokgung Palace for ‘The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon’, a spectacle that has since amassed nearly 50 million views on YouTube.
In 2023, Forbes Magazine recognised his talent, featuring him in their ’30 Under 30 Asia’ list. He’s also had the privilege of collaborating with renowned brands such as New Balance, Samsung Galaxy and McLaren.
Tributes have been pouring in for the late designer, with one BTS fan writing on Twitter (X): “How sad, so young! His hanbok suit designs for BTS performing at Gyeongbokgung are iconic. May Kim Rieul RIP.” Another added: “So young. Rest in peace Kim Rieul. Your hanbok designs were truly iconic.”
A third fan penned: “im Rieul, renowned Hanbok suit designer died. He designed the Hanbok inspired outfits BTS wore during their performed at Gyeongbokgung Palace in 2020 for ‘The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon’. Our Sincere condolences to his family, and friends. May his soul rest in peace.”
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Source: Mirror
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