The world of K-pop was rocked to its core when the news broke that Sulli, a beloved idol and former member of the girl group f(x), had been found dead in her apartment at the young age of 25. Her passing, later confirmed to be a suicide, revealed the intense pressures and relentless online bullying that had plagued her life, pulling back the curtain on the often harsh reality faced by young stars in the industry.

A Bright Star in the K-Pop Galaxy with a Shadowed Life

Sulli, born Choi Jin-ri, was more than just a K-pop idol.

From her debut with f(x) in 2009, she quickly rose to fame, captivating audiences with her talent and charisma. But behind the glitz and glamour was a young woman who struggled with the weight of her fame. Sulli was outspoken, often breaking the mold of what was expected of women in South Korea, and this made her a target. Her decision to forgo wearing a bra in public, for instance, sparked outrage in the conservative society, leading to a barrage of online harassment that would follow her for years.

The Dark Side of Online Fame: Relentless Bullying

Despite her success, Sulli's life was marred by the relentless abuse she received online. The internet can be a cruel place, and for Sulli, it became unbearable. She openly discussed her struggles with mental health, revealing that she had suffered from panic disorders and depression from a young age.

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