Ji Byung Soo (Haldambi) Passes Away at 82
Ji Byung Soo, affectionately known as “Haldambi” after his viral appearance on KBS 1TV’s National Singing Contest, has died at the age of 82. According to Yonhap News Agency, Ji passed away from old age on October 30 at the National Medical Center, his acquaintance Song Dong Ho (CEO of Seungjin Toys) confirmed.
How Haldambi Became a Viral Sensation
Ji Byung Soo rose to nationwide fame after appearing on the Jongno District episode of National Singing Contest, which aired on March 24, 2019. His energetic dance to Son Dam Bi’s hit “Crazy” won him the Popularity Award and earned him the nickname “Haldambi” — a playful contraction of “Grandfather Son Dam Bi.” The moment quickly became a viral sensation, leading to numerous TV appearances and media opportunities.
Media Appearances and Career Highlights
- March 29, 2019: Appeared on KBS 2TV’s Entertainment Weekly following his National Singing Contest appearance.
- April 2, 2019: Launched his official YouTube channel to connect with fans.
- April 7, 2019: Selected as a model for Lotte Home Shopping.
- April 16, 2019: Appeared on episode 13 of tvN’s You Quiz on the Block.
- May 13, 2019: Featured in a KBS 1TV documentary episode titled “Haldambi is Crazy.”
- October 2019: Released a single titled “Get Up” with the support of his manager Song Dong Ho.
- January 23, 2020: Published the book Haldambi, Life is Really Unpredictable.
- Participated as a ceremonial first pitcher at several baseball games, further cementing his status as a beloved public figure.
Manager and Support
Song Dong Ho, whom Ji met through National Singing Contest, became his manager and close acquaintance. Song supported Ji’s media activities and helped produce his single “Get Up” in October 2019, expanding Haldambi’s presence beyond the viral moment into music and public engagements.
Legacy and Public Reaction
Haldambi’s sudden rise from a local contestant to a national icon highlighted the power of viral moments in modern Korean pop culture. Fans and fellow entertainers celebrated his joyful spirit and enthusiasm for performance, and news of his passing prompted condolences across social media and Korean entertainment outlets. Ji’s legacy remains as a reminder that passion and personality can resonate across generations and media platforms.
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