Korean singer Lee Sang Eun found dead shortly before concert

Lee Sang Eun, a popular Korean singer who studied at New York’s Mannes School of Music, died just before a performance, authorities said.

Lee, 46, was found unresponsive in a restroom shortly before the 33rd Regular Concert of the Gimcheon Municipal Choir on Thursday, where she was preparing to perform, reports Deadline.

Eun, also known by the stage name Lee Tzsche, was immediately transported to a hospital where doctors pronounced her dead. The cause of her death has yet to be determined.

Her scheduled performance was part of an event commemorating a cultural exchange between England and the Honam region of South Korea.

The popular k-pop news site, Koreaboo, reported that Lee went missing minutes before she was expected on stage.

“She wasn’t backstage. When I looked in the bathroom, I found her lying on the floor,” said one event staffer.

Police launched an investigation into the incident but reportedly do not suspect foul play.

Lee Sang Eun attended Seoul National University and pursued a master’s degree at the Mannes School.

A renowned soprano opera singer recognized for her androgynous appearance, Lee received numerous accolades during her her career and recorded 15 full-length albums.

She was named ‘Female Musician of the Year’ at the 2004 and 2006 Korean Music Awards, and previously won the Rookie Artist Award at the 1988 Golden Disc Awards.