Much-loved and appreciated for her as Shan Cai in the highly acclaimed 2001 television drama “Meteor Garden,” the actress passed away at the young age of 48. Reports suggest that Hsu succumbed to pneumonia induced by influenza while on holiday in Japan with family.
Dee Hsu confirmed her sister’s passing, saying: “Our whole family came to Japan for a trip, and my dearest and most kindhearted sister Barbie Hsu died of influenza-induced pneumonia and unfortunately left us.”
At 17 years of age, Barbie Hsu began her career in the music industry, performing as part of a sister duo called S.O.S. She ventured into acting through the show “Meteor Garden,” which enjoyed enormous popularity in East Asia. Besides acting, she was involved in activism, and was a staunch defender of animal rights, often collaborating with organizations like PETA.
Hsu is survived by her husband, Koo Jun-yup, a South Korean musician popularly known as DJ Koo, and two children from her previous marriage. Her death has prompted an outpouring of condolences and tributes from fans and colleagues across the entertainment industry.