Cha In Ha death: South Korean actor found dead aged 27

Korean actor Cha In Ha has been found dead aged 27, South Korean media reports.

The star’s agency Fantagio confirmed the news, with a spokesperson saying they were “filled with grief”.

“We earnestly ask for rumours not to be spread, and for speculative reports not to be released in order for his family – who are experiencing great sadness due to the sudden news – to be able to send him away peacefully.

“As wished by his family, the funeral will be held privately. We express deep mourning for his passing.”

Cha In Ha was born in 1992, and had only recently emerged at the forefront of South Korea‘s entertainment scene. He made his debut in 2017 in the short film You, Deep Inside of Me. He had a starring role in the web drama Miss Independent Jieun 2 along with TV shows including Degree of Love and The Banker.

His latest project, the drama Love With Flaws, premiered on 27 November.

Cha’s death is the third in the space of three months of a prominent young South Korean performer. In October, 25-year-old singer Sulli died shortly after leaving a note that hinted she had been suffering from depression. Last week, 27-year-old K-pop star Goo Hara was found dead at her home in Seoul.

The deaths of the two women, who were close friends, sparked calls for more sensitivity and awareness of cyberbullying by fans who criticise perceived flaws in their idol’s behaviour and image.