The South Korean entertainment community is mourning the loss of Ji Byung-soo, the beloved viral sensation affectionately known as “Hal Dam-bi” (Grandfather Son Dam-bi).
It was revealed on December 17, 2025, that Ji passed away on October 30, 2025, at the age of 82.
The Viral Sensation of “Korea Sings”
Ji Byung-soo became an overnight star in March 2019 following a legendary appearance on the long-running KBS program Korea Sings (National Singing Contest).
Then 77 years old, he shocked and delighted the audience with a passionate, highly synchronized performance of Son Dam-bi’s 2008 hit song “Crazy.”
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His infectious energy, rhythmic “chair dance,” and genuine joy earned him the nickname “Hal Dam-bi.”
The performance went viral globally, amassing millions of views and turning him into a symbol of “aging gracefully” and finding passion at any age.
A Life of Resilience and Artistry
Beyond his brief stint as a viral star, Ji Byung-soo’s life was marked by both artistic talent and personal hardship:
- Diverse Career: Born in Gimje, he worked in construction and managed various businesses, including a boutique in Myeong-dong and a bar in Sinchon.
- Traditional Dance: Long before his K-pop fame, he was a trained traditional dancer and was once selected for a team that performed in Japan.
- Overcoming Adversity: Despite losing his fortune to fraud and living as a basic livelihood security recipient in his later years, he remained positive, eventually publishing a book titled “Grandpa Dambi, You Never Know What Life Has in Store!”
Relationship with Son Dam-bi
Ji Byung-soo’s fame led to a heartwarming connection with the original artist, Son Dam-bi. After his performance went viral, Son Dam-bi posted a video response thanking him for his passion.
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The two eventually shared the stage for a special collaboration on a news program, a moment Ji often cited as one of the happiest of his later years.
Final Farewell
According to his longtime manager and friend, Song Dong-ho, Ji passed away due to natural causes (old age) at the National Medical Center.
Although he never married, his two adopted sons and his manager served as chief mourners during his funeral.
His remains were enshrined at the Byeokje Municipal Cemetery columbarium on November 15, 2025.
Fans across South Korea have taken to social media to pay tribute to the man who reminded everyone that it is never too late to dance.
