K-Drama fans worldwide are mourning the heartbreaking news: Kang Seo-ha, the talented South Korean actress known for roles in First Love Again, The Flower in Prison, and Heart Surgeons, has passed away at the age of 31 after battling advanced stomach cancer.
Her death was confirmed on July 14, 2025, with her wake held at Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital. The funeral will be conducted in private by her family.
A Rising Star Silenced Too Soon – Career Highlights
Born Kang Ye-won, she studied acting at the prestigious Korea National University of Arts before debuting in 2012. Over the years, Kang Seo-ha built a steady career through supporting yet memorable roles in several hit K-dramas:
- Heart Surgeons (2018)
- Assembly (2015)
- Schoolgirl Detectives (2014)
- The Flower in Prison (2016)
- First Love Again (2017)
- Through the Waves (2018)
Her nuanced performances, natural charm, and subtle emotional depth quickly earned her a loyal fanbase across Asia.
Her Final Film – In the Net with Kim Seon-ho
Despite battling cancer privately, Kang Seo-ha continued working. She recently wrapped filming for her final project, the upcoming movie In the Net (망내인), co-starring Kim Seon-ho and Park Gyu-young.
Reports reveal that she pushed through grueling chemotherapy sessions while completing her scenes, determined to finish what would become her last on-screen appearance. The film is now expected to be released posthumously, with industry insiders hinting at a possible tribute during its premiere.
Instagram Tribute Sparks Global Grief
Following the news, an emotional Instagram post—believed to be from her sister—has gone viral across Korean and international fan communities:
“Even though you couldn’t eat for months, you insisted on paying for my meals… My angel who left far too soon.”
The post reflects her generosity, quiet strength, and unwavering kindness, even in the darkest stages of her illness. Fans and fellow actors have flooded social media with tributes, remembering her as a “bright soul” who “radiated grace on and off screen.”
The Private Battle with Stomach Cancer
Kang Seo-ha’s battle with stage 4 stomach cancer was not publicly disclosed until after her death. Sources say she kept it hidden from the public eye, choosing instead to focus on her work, family, and recovery.
Stomach cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in South Korea, particularly among younger adults due to late diagnosis. Her passing has sparked renewed conversations around early cancer screenings and mental health in the entertainment industry.
Remembering Kang Seo-ha – Her Lasting Legacy
Though gone too soon, Kang Seo-ha leaves behind a powerful legacy. She exemplified quiet resilience, artistic commitment, and heartfelt authenticity in every performance.
Fans are now revisiting her work in dramas like:
- First Love Again
- The Flower in Prison
- Assembly
- Heart Surgeons
Streaming platforms are expected to feature retrospectives, and discussions around adding a special tribute in her final film release are underway.
Kang Seo-ha’s sudden passing is a devastating loss to the K-drama community. Her story is a poignant reminder of how precious life is—and how one artist’s quiet strength can move millions.
As fans await the release of In the Net, her memory lives on in every role she brought to life.