The K-pop industry is mourning the untimely passing of Lee Min, one of the original voices of the Korean-American music scene and a member of K-pop duo, As One. She had a career that spanned over 25 years, and with her rich vocals and emotional resonance, she had shaped a generation of K-pop fans who are left mourning for the passed away singer.
Lee Min was born in Seoul and raised in Los Angeles, and apart from being a trailblazer in Korea’s music scene, she also acted as a bridge between two cultures, both of which she represented with utmost respect and love. Through her music and heartfelt lyrics, she brought relatable stories to life that were appreciated and loved by her audience. As the fans and industry mourn her sudden loss, let’s have a look at Lee Min’s life and journey.
From Seoul to Los Angeles, Lee Min’s Korean-American journey
Born Lee Min-young on December 15, 1978, in Seoul, South Korea, Lee Min spent most of her life in the United States. Her family had moved from Seoul to Los Angeles when she was just eight months old. Growing up in L.A., she attended Fairfax High School, an arts-heavy institution known for their renowned alums like Mila Kunis and Anthony Kiedis. It was at her school that she met her future musical soulmate and band member, Crystal Chae. Their friendship that formed in high school halls, soon evolved into one of the most enduring duos in the Korean music industry.
Lee Min debuted as a member of As One in 1999
Lee Min and Crystal Chae made their official debut as As One in 1999. Their debut album, Day by Day, stood out by delivering soul-infused ballads and emotional storytelling. Song like Wish You Wouldn’t Know quickly turned heads and helped the duo earn both critical acclaim and a loyal fan base that supported them for years ahead. Amid a fast-paced pop idol industry which was heavily dependent on extravagant dance performances and huge teams, As One’s maturity and vocal harmony introduced something refreshing to the audience. Their authenticity and emotions captured the hearts of millions.
Lee Min saw a decade of musical success through As One
Throughout the early 2000s, As One continued to solidify their place in the Korean music landscape. Their fourth album, Restoration, released in 2004, was a standout success for them as it truly reflected their emotional depth and vocal growth that came with their growing experience. Soon after that, the duo signed with EMI Korea, joining a label that housed top-tier idols like Baby V.O.X. and DJ DOC. Even with a bigger label Lee Min and Crystal stayed true to their musical roots.
Lee Min’s comeback and reinvention with BrandNew Music
In 2012, As One signed with BrandNew Music, a hip-hop and Rhythm and Blues label founded by Korean rapper and producer, Rhymer. This move introduced them to a younger audience and saw them collaborating with popular artists like Verbal Jint on Day by Day 2012, a modern reworking of their older hits. One of their biggest successes during this period was their 2013 single Want and Resent 2013, which charted in the Top 20 on Korea’s Gaon Digital Chart.
Lee Min’s soft and comforting voice remained at the heart of As One’s music. As One took an official break from 2017 to 2019 to focus on their personal lives. However, they came back in 2019 with their single, It’s OK Not to Be OK featuring Lee Dae-hwi of AB6IX. The track struck a chord with and reflected the duo’s growth as artists who weren’t afraid to talk about real-life issues.
Lee Min’s life beyond the stage included radio and teaching
Aside from performing, Lee Min was also active as a radio DJ for TBS eFM’s K-Popular, where she and Crystal shared insights into the music industry, discussed K-culture, and connected with global fans. In her later years, Lee Min passed on her musical brilliance by teaching and became a music educator. She was known for her gentle nature and positive energy. She mentored young artists and inspired students with her experience and passion. According to Koreaboo, Lee’s longtime acquaintance said:
“She was such a positive friend. It’s hard to believe this has happened as she was having so much fun promoting after such a long time.”
Lee Min’s recent projects and ongoing career in 2025
Far from slowing down after decades of working, Lee Min remained active in 2025. Earlier this year, As One released two singles, Still My Baby featuring Bumkey and Happy Birthday to You in June, 2025. Just a month before her passing, Lee Min appeared on KBS2’s The Seasons: Park Bo-gum’s Cantabile, performing with comedian, Moon Se Yoon and rapper, Hanhae. Her appearance proved once again that she hadn’t lost her charm and was still a beloved figure among the audience.
Lee Min’s untimely death has left fans shocked. Industry insiders have reacted to her death
On August 5, 2025, Lee Min was found deceased at her home by her husband, whom she had married in Hawaii back in 2013. She was only 46 years old at the time of her demise. Her agency, BrandNew Music, confirmed the news on August 6, 2025, asking the public to refrain from making any speculations till the time the cause of her death is revealed, as investigations are currently underway.
The announcement of Lee Min’s demise shook fans and peers alike. Her longtime friend and bandmate, Crystal Chae immediately returned to Korea from the U.S. upon hearing the news. Industry colleagues like producer, Jae Chong, who had once helped launch her career, and singer, Kim Hyun-sung expressed their grief publicly. Jae Chong posted on his social media and wrote:
“I met Min when she was just 17 with big dreams… She was the most optimistic, positive person I knew. She will be missed dearly.”
Lee Min’s legacy will live on with her angelic voice
Lee Min was a vocalist who was among the pioneers of bridging the gap between Western and Eastern music. In a world dominated by fast trends and visuals, she stayed true to soulful and honest music. From her debut in 1999 to her final tracks in 2025, her journey reflected her unwavering and true dedication to her craft. Her ability to evolve while remaining true to herself was rare and deeply respected in the industry.
Rest in peace, Lee Min. May your voice and artistry never be forgotten.
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