Jerry.K Passes Away at 42: A Loss for Korean Hip-Hop

Rapper Jerry.K (@jerrykmusic) has passed away at the age of 42.

According to reports from his family, he had been battling glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer.

Born Kim Jin-il in 1984, Jerry.K graduated from Seoul National University with a degree in Communication and made his debut in 2001 as part of the rap duo Loquence alongside Makesense. He later became known as an early member of Soul Company before continuing his career as a solo artist.

In 2011, he founded the independent label Daze Alive, further establishing his own path within the Korean hip-hop scene. His 2014 album Reality, Enemy won Best Rap & Hip-Hop Album at the Korean Music Awards, while the track “Call Center” was also nominated for Best Rap & Hip-Hop Song.

Throughout his career, Jerry.K was respected for his sharp lyricism, strong social commentary, and independent spirit. His later works, including the 2020 album Home, reflected themes of everyday life, recovery, and personal change.