TV personality Ahn Hyun-mo paid tribute to the late music critic Kim Young-dae (48), who passed away suddenly.
Posting a heartfelt note on Dec. 28, Ahn wrote that she never imagined she’d have to say these words―“and certainly not this soon.” She added that while it still feels unreal, she’s choosing to let him go: “By now you must have arrived in heaven and are enjoying something delicious.”
Ahn remembered Kim as “a charming, upbeat friend who made everyone feel at ease with kindness and an open mind.” Despite calling herself shy, she said they could talk about everything―music, movies, little worries, even wild imaginings―like old schoolmates.
She also highlighted his devotion to family, saying he was “always most animated when talking about his wife and kids.” Keeping their annual Christmas tradition, “he watched his favorite film, 'The Family Man,' with his beloved daughter and then closed his eyes for the last time―a true family man.” She called him “a father, husband, son, and brother who understood what matters most.”
Ahn praised Kim as “a singular voice in pop-culture criticism and communication―a music critic and author” and lamented how much he still had left to share. “Although you always called me your best friend, I reflect on myself for having been nothing but lacking,” she wrote, promising to “remember, miss, and honor Kim Young-dae (Edmond) forever.” She ended with a wish that he rest peacefully, free of worry.
Ahn and Kim frequently collaborated across radio, TV, and interviews, and remained close off-air. His passing has left colleagues and fans in shock, especially as he had remained active in publishing and broadcasting until recently.
Kim Young-dae died on Dec. 24 at age 48.
(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Kyung-youn)