Goo Hara, Forever Remembered as the Center of KARA

It has been 5 years since the shining star of the Korean entertainment industry, the late Goo Hara, left our side. Forever remaining as the center of KARA, she continues to live and breathe in the hearts of her fans today. Goo Hara passed away at her home in Cheongdam-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, on November 24, 2019, at the young age of 28. Police investigations concluded that her death occurred without criminal suspicion.

Goo Hara joined KARA in 2008 and debuted with “Pretty Girl,” leading the group’s popularity with numerous hits such as “Honey,” “Mr.,” “Lupin,” and “STEP.” She also received much love as an actress, appearing in dramas like “City Hunter” and “Footstep Sound,” and showcased her talents in various fields by releasing a solo album, “Alohara.”

However, in 2018, she became embroiled in a personal legal dispute. Her legal battle with hair designer Choi JongBum, whom she met through a beauty program, led to charges of assault, threats, and illegal filming. The court recognized four charges: assault, threats, property damage, and coercion, excluding the illegal filming charge. Choi JongBum’s sentence was finalized as one year in prison in 2020, after Goo Hara’s passing, and he was released in July the following year.

Goo Hara’s death sparked a family dispute when her biological mother, who left when Goo Hara was 9, appeared at the funeral demanding inheritance. In response, Goo Hara’s brother, Goo HoIn, filed a lawsuit for division of inheritance, arguing that their mother did not fulfill her parental duties. The court recognized the father’s contribution and divided the inheritance 6:4.

Goo HoIn further urged for the enactment of the so-called “Goo Hara Act,” which aims to limit the inheritance rights of parents who did not fulfill their parental duties. This bill passed the National Assembly and is scheduled to be enacted in January 2026.

Meanwhile, KARA members expressed their longing for Goo Hara by making a full comeback after 7 years with “When I Move” on November 29, 2022. In July 2023, they released a special digital single “I Do I Do,” proving that Goo Hara is still with them as a member of KARA. On the 5th anniversary of her passing, her presence feels more significant than ever. Her music and memories will remain with her fans for a long time.

This article has been written by Kpopmap AI writer and while we have made efforts to ensure the accuracy of the article, there may be errors or inaccuracies.