Kang Seo‑Ha, born Kang Ye‑won on June 13, 1994, was a South Korean actress and model who sadly passed away on July 13, 2025, at the young age of 31. She died after a prolonged and courageous battle with stomach cancer. A graduate of the Korea National University of Arts’ School of Drama, she made her debut in 2012 in the music video for “Farther Away” by Brave Guys, marking the beginning of a promising career in entertainment.
Over the years, Kang Seo‑Ha became known for her nuanced and heartfelt performances in a variety of South Korean dramas. She appeared in notable series such as Schoolgirl Detectives (also known as Seonam Girls’ High School Detectives), Assembly, First Love Again, Through the Waves, The Flower in Prison, and Heart Surgeons. Her performances were often praised for their emotional depth and sincerity, even in supporting roles. Her final project was a film titled Mangnaein, which she completed shortly before her death.
In late 2023, Kang Seo‑Ha was diagnosed with gastric cancer. She underwent two rounds of chemotherapy in an effort to fight the disease, but her condition worsened during later treatments. Despite being in pain, she was known to worry more about others than herself—something poignantly recalled by her sister in a touching Instagram tribute. Her sister shared that Kang continued to show care and generosity, insisting on paying for meals and offering support to loved ones, even in her final days.
Her funeral was held on July 16, 2025. A memorial altar was set up at Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital, and she was laid to rest at her family’s burial site in Haman, located in South Gyeongsang Province. The outpouring of grief from fans, fellow actors, and the general public reflected the deep impression she had left on the Korean entertainment industry and those who knew her.
Early Life and Family Background
Born into a close‑knit family
Kang Seo Ha was born in South Korea on June 13, 1994. Though detailed information on her parents remains private, reports from her sister’s emotional Instagram tribute highlight a deeply bonded family. Her sibling spoke of Kang’s unwavering care—paying for meals during her illness even when she could not eat herself.
Siblings
Kang Seo Ha shared her life with at least one sister, who posted a heartfelt video and loving message after her death, recounting Kang’s generosity and spirit in spite of her suffering .
Education
Kang Seo Ha graduated from the prestigious Korea National University of Arts, majoring in Drama. The institution is known for producing some of South Korea’s most accomplished actors and performers. Her time there laid a strong foundation for her acting career.
Acting Career
Debut and Early Recognition
Kang made her entertainment debut in 2012 in the music video for Brave Guys’ “Getting Farther Away”. Though brief, this appearance garnered attention and served as her entry into the industry.
Rise through Television
Following her debut, she transitioned to acting in television dramas. Over the years, she appeared in several well-known series:
- Schoolgirl Detectives (Sunam Girls’ High School Detectives)
- Assembly
- First Love Again
- Through the Waves
- The Flower in Prison
- Heart Surgeons
- Nobody Knows
Each role, often supportive, enabled her to display emotional depth and vulnerability—earning appreciation from audiences and critics
Final Work and Film Debut
Before her passing, Kang wrapped filming on a movie titled Mangnaein (also referred to as “In the Net”), a project starring alongside actors Kim Seon Ho and Park Gyu Young. The film is slated for posthumous release in the second half of 2025.
Complete Drama & Filmography
Television Series
Here is a chronological list of her notable drama appearances:
- 2012 Schoolgirl Detectives
- 2013–2014 Assembly
- 2015–2016 First Love Again
- — Through the Waves
- — The Flower in Prison
- — Heart Surgeons
- — Nobody Knows
Net Worth
Reliable estimates of Kang Seo Ha’s net worth are scarce. Acting in supporting roles typically yields modest earnings, supplemented by endorsements or music video appearances. One profile states she earned income through modeling, acting, and product affiliations while signed with Insight MCN in 2023. However, without official figures, any net worth estimate remains speculative. The profile claims she held an estimated net worth of $200,000–$500,000, but this lacks independent verification.
Cancer Diagnosis and Illness
In late 2023 or early 2024, Kang was diagnosed with stomach (gastric) cancer. She underwent at least two rounds of chemotherapy, initially responding well, but her condition deteriorated during subsequent treatments.
Her suffering was immense, yet she remained focused on comforting others. Her sister revealed how Kang used painkillers and continued to financially support loved ones even on days she could not eat.
Death and Memorial Services
Kang Seo Ha passed away on July 13, 2025, at 31 years old. Her death was publicly confirmed by her agency, Insight MCN, and reported by numerous outlets.
A memorial altar was set up in Room 8 of the funeral hall at Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital, Banpo-dong. Her funeral procession took place at 7:40 AM on July 16, 2025, followed by cremation at Seoul Memorial Park, and burial at her family’s site in Haman, South Gyeongsang Province.
Following her passing, family members and fans shared emotional tributes. Her sister’s heartfelt Instagram message described Kang as her “angel” and expressed sorrow and admiration for her enduring kindness .
Personal Life and Character
While Kang Seo Ha kept her private life out of the spotlight, glimpses from family tributes reveal a generous and selfless personality. Despite battling severe illness, she continued supporting loved ones emotionally and financially. This sincerity endeared her peers and fans, reinforcing her legacy as an actress of warmth and strength.
Conclusion
Kang Seo Ha’s life, though brief, left an indelible mark through her artistic achievements and personal integrity. From a promising debut in a music video to a series of heartfelt roles in television dramas, she carved a space for herself as an actress of depth and compassion. Her quiet strength during her cancer battle and her determination to care for others, even in pain, set her apart. As audiences await her final film, Kang’s memory endures—as a talented performer, a loving sister, and a beacon of resilience and grace.
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where was Kang Seo Ha born?
She was born on June 13, 1994, in South Korea. Specific city details remain private.
What was Kang Seo Ha’s real name?
Her birth name was Kang Ye‑won.
Where did Kang Seo Ha receive her education?
She graduated from the Korea National University of Arts, majoring in Drama.
Which dramas featured Kang Seo Ha?
She appeared in Schoolgirl Detectives, Assembly, First Love Again, Through the Waves, The Flower in Prison, Heart Surgeons, and Nobody Knows.
What film did she star in before her passing?
She finished filming Mangnaein (aka In the Net), set to release in late 2025.
When did she pass away, and from what cause?
She died on July 13, 2025, after battling stomach cancer.
What were the funeral arrangements?
A service was held on July 16, 2025, at Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital, followed by cremation and burial in Haman, South Gyeongsang Province.
How did her family describe her?
Her sister described her as an “angel” who continued to care for others—even buying meals when too ill to eat herself.
