Taiwanese actress and singer Barbie Hsu has died at the age of 48 due to complications from influenza, her family confirmed on Monday.
Hsu, best known for her role in the 2001 drama Meteor Garden, developed flu-related pneumonia while travelling abroad.
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Her sudden death highlights the potential severity of influenza, which can lead to life-threatening complications even in otherwise healthy adults.
Barbie Hsu’s Sudden Passing and Family’s Statement
The news was confirmed in a statement sent to Taiwanese media by her family through the manager of her younger sister, TV host Dee Hsu.
According to Taiwanese news outlet ETToday, Hsu fell ill before departing for a family trip to Japan on January 29 but chose to travel despite experiencing cold and asthma symptoms. Her condition worsened over the following days.
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On January 31, she was taken to the emergency room in Hakone before being transferred to a larger hospital in Tokyo on February 1, where she was diagnosed with influenza A.
Her condition deteriorated rapidly, and she was rushed to the hospital again in critical condition at midnight on February 2. She passed away early that morning.
Reports indicate that the Hsu family remained in Japan to complete cremation procedures before returning to Taiwan.
The Dangers of Influenza-Related Pneumonia
Influenza is often perceived as a seasonal illness, but in some cases, it can escalate into severe complications such as pneumonia.
Flu-related pneumonia occurs when the virus weakens the immune system, allowing bacterial or viral infections to spread to the lungs. This can lead to respiratory failure, sepsis, or multi-organ damage if not treated promptly.
While the exact medical circumstances of Hsu’s death remain unclear, her case highlights how influenza can deteriorate rapidly.
She initially experienced mild symptoms but required emergency medical attention within days.
Flu Prevention and the Importance of Vaccination
Influenza is highly contagious, spreading through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or
Annual flu vaccinations as the most effective way to reduce the risk of severe illness. Flu vaccines lower the chances of hospitalisation and death, particularly in high-risk groups such as the elderly, pregnant women, and those with chronic illnesses.
Beyond vaccination, other preventive measures can help reduce the spread of influenza.
- Frequent handwashing with soap and water or alcohol-based sanitisers.
- Wearing a mask in crowded places, especially during flu season.
- Avoiding close contact with people who are sick.
- Staying home when unwell to prevent spreading the virus to others.
While no vaccine offers 100% protection, flu shots significantly reduce the severity of illness and the risk of complications.
Hsu’s passing is a reminder that influenza should not be underestimated. Taking preventive measures, including getting vaccinated, can save lives.
Hsu’s Legacy and the Family She Leaves Behind
Hsu’s passing has left a profound impact on her family, fans, and the entertainment industry. She is survived by her two children—a 10-year-old daughter and an 8-year-old son—whom she shared with her former husband, Chinese businessman Wang Xiaofei.
In the days before her passing, Hsu appeared in a New Year’s Eve family photo posted by her husband, South Korean musician Koo Jun-yup, on December 31.
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Hsu’s career spanned music, film, and television, with starring roles in projects such as Mars (2004), Connected (2008), and Summer’s Desire (2010). In recent years, she had stepped away from acting, focusing on her family and personal life.
Her passing serves as a reminder of how unpredictable health complications can be, and her legacy as an actress, singer, and entertainer will continue to live on in the hearts of those who admired her work.
Header image credit: Barbie Hsu via Instagram