5 best Choi Wheesung songs to pay tribute to the late South Korean R&B singer

Choi Wheesung, typically among the top-rated R&B vocalists from South Korea, left a legendary status in the industry. Beginning with his musical emergence in the early 2000s, Wheesung provided emotional compositions coupled with powerful melodies.

Whether using warm ballads or grooving numbers, the songs of Wheesung capture an intimate connection among the audiences. Throughout the years, his impact has not only been felt within his catalog, as he has also penned and produced tracks for other artists.

Here are five of Choi Wheesung's most legendary songs that still touch our hearts.

"Incurable Disease" (2007)

Another song from his Eternal Essence of Music album is "Incurable Disease," which is another display of Choi Wheesung's strong vocal prowess. The theme of the song is love as a hopeless disease, one that continues even when it hurts.

With its chorus and melodramatic instrumentation, the song is one of Wheesung's most impassioned interpretations. The track is also frequently cited as a favorite by fans for its rich lyrics and how Wheesung sings every note with sincere emotional expression.

"Love Seat" (with Humming Urban Stereo) (2008)

Love Seat" offers a lighter side of Choi Wheesung—a playful and carefree one. Working with Humming Urban Stereo, the song fuses R&B with electronic lounge music, resulting in a smooth, laid-back sound. The lyrics detail the comfort and heat of loving, employing the metaphor of a shared seat as a representation of proximity and affection.

In contrast to some of Wheesung's heavier ballads, this song has a bright, upbeat feel while still displaying his trademark vocal smoothness. It serves as a reminder that his range exists well beyond ballads.

"Insomnia" (2009)

This Korean cover of Craig David's hit single was a huge hit when Choi Wheesung released it. His cover maintains the original's upbeat energy while adding his unique vocal flair. The track speaks of insomnia due to a persistent love, encapsulating the agitated feelings that accompany breakups.

With its trance-like rhythm and catchy melody, "Insomnia" became a club hit without losing its emotional resonance. It was among the tracks that further solidified Wheesung's position as a first-rate R&B singer in Korea.

"Words That Freeze My Heart" (2011)

This ballad, released as part of his They Are Coming mini-album, is another standout in Choi Wheesung's discography. The song’s lyrics express the pain of hearing the final words from a loved one before parting ways.

The stripped-down piano arrangement allows his vocals to take center stage, emphasizing the deep emotions within the song. When it came out, Choi Wheesung was already set to enlist in the military, making the song even more sentimental. Years later, it is still a song that is evoked in many fans' minds with tearful goodbyes and closure.

"Masterpiece of You" (2014)

Having fulfilled his military duties, Choi Wheesung came back with The Best Man album, which included "Masterpiece of You" among its best features. The song is a classy R&B track that lauds a beloved as a masterpiece. Its lyrical verses and silky melody produce a profoundly romantic mood.

Choi Wheesung's singing in this song is sophisticated, reflecting his maturation as an artist. Although it is not as well-known as some of his earlier successes, "Masterpiece of You" is still a cherished hit among old fans who enjoy his work.

Choi Wheesung's music has made a lasting contribution to K-R&B and more. Whether in soulful ballads or energetic songs, his capacity for expressing profound emotions continues to find resonance with the public.

His impact is felt beyond his music, having mentored and written for emerging artists, paving the way for the industry himself. To this day, as of 2025, fans continue to reminisce over these songs as some of his most memorable, each with its memories and feelings that stand the test of time.

Edited by Abhimanyu Sharma

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