Rapper Jerry.K (42 years old, born Kim Jin-il) died on the 27th following a struggle with glioblastoma, a type of aggressive brain cancer.
Born in 1984, the late Kim graduated from Seoul National University’s Department of Communication and Information. He made his debut in 2001 by teaming up with his high school friend, rapper MakeSense, to form the rap group Loqs. Later, he became a co-founder of the hip-hop collective Soul Company and released his first solo EP, *Ilgal*, in 2006.
He started to become widely known in 2008 with his first full-length album *The Demon King*, which was praised by both critics and fans. The album, which addresses human nature and societal problems using straightforward language, led to him being given titles like “The Sarcastic Rapper” and “The Demon King” within the hip-hop community.
He previously worked as the CEO of Soul Company but departed following its closure in 2011, founding his own label called Days Alive. Since then, he has been acknowledged as a rapper who keeps analyzing reality and exploring different facets of Korean society.
His third full-length album *Reality, Enemy* received a nomination for Best Rap & Hip-Hop Album at the 12th Korean Music Awards, while the lead single *Call Center*, featuring Woo Hyo, from his fourth album was nominated for Best Rap & Hip-Hop Song at the 14th Korean Music Awards. In 2020, he unveiled his fifth studio album *Home*, which explores the return to normal life and tranquility.
In 2024, he revealed that he was fighting glioblastoma. In May of the same year, the late Kim shared a brief message on Instagram saying, “I was suddenly diagnosed with a brain tumor, had surgery, and am currently recovering.” He continued, “I still don’t fully grasp what’s happening. I hope to improve, even slightly. Please keep me in your thoughts now and then.”
The funeral took place at the funeral home of Sinchon Severance Hospital. The funeral procession is scheduled for the 29th.






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