JTBC Reporter Yang Won-bo Mourns the Passing of Lawyer Baek Seong-moon: 'Your Seat Will Always Be Here'

Yang Won-bo, a reporter for JTBC's 'Suhyung's Investigation,' has penned a heartfelt tribute to the late lawyer Baek Seong-moon, expressing his deep sorrow over the loss.

In a lengthy message posted on the official 'Suhyung's Investigation' YouTube channel on the 31st, Yang began, "Dear 'Suhyung's Investigation' family! Hello, this is reporter Yang Won-bo. It’s been a while since I last posted." He continued, "I believe many of you heard the sad news this morning. There were times I wanted to say something, but I truly believed in Seong-moon hyung's recovery. I thought it would be better for him to share the details himself upon his return, so I held back."

"He was only 52 years old. Such an unbelievably short time. He was a truly wonderful person, more righteous and full of warmth than anyone else," Yang wrote, fondly remembering his colleague. He shared a poignant exchange from when Baek was battling his illness. Baek had told him, "Won-bo, when I recover, I'll quit other programs, but I'll continue with 'Suhyung's Investigation.'" This was during their last contact before his condition rapidly worsened. Yang had responded, "No matter how long it takes, your seat will always be here." Baek's reply was, "Thank you, Won-bo."

Yang also noted, "Many media outlets today reported hyung's passing, placing 'Suhyung's Investigation' as a descriptor before his name. It seems 'Suhyung's Investigation' and our family were a significant part of his life." He concluded, "Dear 'Suhyeong' family, please join me in wishing for his eternal rest. Thank you."

Lawyer Baek Seong-moon passed away at the age of 52 on the morning of the 31st at Bundang Seoul National University Hospital after a battle with cancer. His wake is being held at the Asan Medical Center Funeral Hall, with his wife, YTN announcer Kim Seon-young, and other family members listed as the chief mourners.

Netizens expressed their condolences, with comments like, "Their friendship is truly touching. My deepest sympathies to the bereaved family," and "I can't imagine how sad the 'Suhyung's Investigation' members must be. May lawyer Baek rest in peace." Many found Yang's tribute particularly moving.