As memorial content honoring the late Wheesung was released, the production side addressed controversy from some viewers alleging “commercial use.”
On the 10th, Dingo Music published a Killing Voice video on its official YouTube channel that revisits Wheesung’s signature hits. The content was planned to mark the first anniversary of his passing, celebrate his musical legacy, and shine a fresh light on his classics.
This stage featured singer Babylon and pre-debut rookie Ain. The two reinterpreted several of Wheesung’s representative songs, including ‘전할 수 없는 이야기’, ‘위드 미’ (With Me), ‘다시 만난 날’, and ‘하늘을 걸어서’.
In particular, Babylon appeared overcome with emotion while singing the final track ‘안 되나요’, choking up mid-performance and drawing sympathy from viewers. After the stage ended, the two stood in brief silence, looking at the screen to pay their respects to the late artist.
Once the video dropped, many fans reacted with longing, saying, “I’m thinking about Wheesung a lot,” and “I can’t believe it’s already been a year.” However, some questioned the inclusion of a not-yet-debuted rookie, arguing it might be “for promotion,” which sparked debate.
In response, the affiliated label Bluebrown Records clarified to multiple outlets on the 11th: “We had absolutely no intention of using the deceased as a marketing tool.” The agency added, “Mentioning Wheesung’s name while sharing news about a girl-group launch was not for promotion; it was to express respect for someone who helped shape the label’s beginning and direction,” emphasizing that it signified their commitment to carry on the musical values and artist-production philosophy Wheesung championed in his lifetime.
Meanwhile, Wheesung was found in cardiac arrest at his home in Gwangjin-gu, Seoul, on March 10 last year and passed away at the age of 43. At the time, police said that while the initial autopsy did not clearly determine the cause of death, there were no signs of forced entry or criminal activity.