Choi Jin-ri, better known by her stage name Sulli, was a South Korean actress, singer, and model. Sulli first made her debut as a child actress, appearing as a supporting cast member on the SBS historical drama Ballad of Seodong. 

Just like her name Jinri ( “Truth”), Suli was also an existence that went beyond her name. She was someone who practised her resistance for freedom with her whole body and soul, and it shows. She spoke openly about her struggles with mental health issues, cyberbullying – and even her romantic relationships, which many K-pop stars are banned from doing by their management.

The 25 year old insisted women should be free to dress as they pleased, and she was often strongly criticised for not wearing a bra in public. She brazenly spoke out based on her own beliefs. These nonconforming, loud and bold female stars have to risk their entire career to be who they are.

Sulli was found dead at her home on Monday. The initial police report said there was no sign of foul play. Her close friends said she had been depressed before her death.

Several idols have since spoken out about the need for better support for stars in the K-pop industry, and the pressures they are under.

Sulli left this industry at a time when K-pop stars, especially women, are still not able to fully, freely express themselves without risking a major backlash from the public. While she will be undeniably missed, one hopes that not only did Sulli’s outspoken, confident way of living make a change to the traditional, harshly rigid standards that Korean celebrities seemingly must keep, but also evolve the toxic culture of online commenters that plague and taunt the K-pop stars – perhaps more than anyone may realize.

“My name is Sulli. Sul means snow and Li means a pear flower. So I’ll probably reborn as a flower that is small but full of strong vitality.” – Sulli (Choi Jin-ri) (March 29, 1994 – October 14, 2019).