Chopin Competition Laureate Rescued by Police After Suicide Concerns

Written by Chantal Gapato  |  December 16, 2025

Pianist Lim Dong hyek was confirmed safe after police intervention on the morning of the 16th, following the publication of a series of handwritten messages on social media that raised concern for his wellbeing.

Police from the Seocho Police Station responded to a report received at approximately 8:30 a.m. stating that Lim was believed to be at risk. Officers located him in Seocho dong, Seocho gu, Seoul, and transported him to a nearby hospital for evaluation. Authorities later confirmed that there was no threat to his life.

Earlier that day, Lim shared multiple handwritten letters on his SNS in which he reflected on his personal struggles and mental health. He wrote that he has lived with severe depression throughout his career as a performer and stated that he has taken antidepressant medication continuously since 2015. Lim noted that antidepressants are not harmful drugs and can be taken long term, but said he continued to suffer from chronic physical and psychological illness.

In the messages, Lim also addressed past personal controversies, acknowledging involvement in prostitution and describing it as a mistake. He wrote that both his mind and body had reached their limits and said he decided to accept the first trial verdict, expressing regret for his actions. In his final message, he apologized and thanked those who had supported him, writing that he had been happy and grateful.

Lim Dong hyek is widely recognized for his achievements in major international piano competitions. He rose to global prominence after winning first prize at the Queen Elisabeth Competition in 2001. He later became a laureate at the International Tchaikovsky Competition in 2002.

He is also a laureate of the International Fryderyk Chopin Piano Competition. At the 15th Chopin Competition held in Warsaw in 2005, Lim was awarded joint third prize alongside his brother, Lim Dong min. The competition was won that year by Polish pianist Rafał Blechacz.

Lim’s social media posts have drawn widespread attention in South Korea and internationally, prompting renewed discussion about mental health challenges faced by professional musicians.

Photo courtesy of Donghyeklim.com