Goo Hara was found dead at her residence in Gangnam-gu, Seoul on November 24th, 2019. She was 28 years old at the time. The sudden news of her death shocked not only KARA members but also colleagues in the entertainment industry and fans.
Moreover, the announcement of her death came just a month after the passing of her close friend Sulli. Goo Hara mourned Sulli and expressed her deep sorrow, “Go and live as you truly want there. I’ll live hard and work hard for you.“
During her lifetime, Goo Hara endured significant suffering due to an assault and blackmail case involving her ex-boyfriend. She revealed that while the ex-boyfriend claimed mutual violence, he had threatened to release private videos, exposing the issue of “revenge porn” to the public. The case persisted even after her passing, and her ex-boyfriend was eventually sentenced to one year in prison.
Following her tragic death, Goo Hara’s older brother advocated for the enactment of the “Goo Hara Act,” aimed at strengthening parental responsibilities. In August of this year, a bill was passed by the National Assembly stipulating that “individuals who have severely neglected their duty to support direct ascendants or descendants may have their inheritance rights restricted.” This legislation honors Goo Hara’s legacy by transforming her ordeal into meaningful legal reform.
On the 5th anniversary of Goo Hara’s death, fans are conveying their enduring longing on her Instagram account, which became a memorial page.
In November 2022, KARA members gathered to commemorate their 15th debut anniversary and the third anniversary of Goo Hara’s passing.
In January this year, KARA received the K-POP Special Award at the 32nd Seoul Music Awards. Member Han Seungyeon emotionally stated “There’s a friend who couldn’t be here with us. We’ll accept this award on behalf of that friend“, bringing tears to those present.
Meanwhile, Goo Hara debuted in 2008 as a member of KARA under DSP Media. With numerous hit songs such as “Mister,” “Pretty Girl,” “Honey,” and “Mamma Mia,” she captured the hearts of fans both in Korea and abroad, solidifying her status as a Hallyu star.
Beyond her activities with KARA, she showcased her talents as an actress in dramas like City Hunter and Sound of Footsteps. Starting in 2016, she also pursued a solo career, focusing on Japan, where she gained significant popularity with releases like “Midnight Queen.”
Source: Insight
