Japanese YouTuber with 600,000 subscribers dies suddenly at 26; cause of death not disclosed

[The Financial News] YouTuber Zepa, a popular creator from Japan with more than 600,000 subscribers, has died suddenly at the age of 26.
On the 6th, a notice was posted on Zepa's official channels, including X (formerly Twitter), that read, "We are sorry to inform you of this sudden sad news. Zepa has passed away suddenly. We apologize on his behalf for this unexpected announcement."
According to Zepa's side, the funeral was held with only close relatives in attendance. They added, "We are deeply grateful for the strong support and friendship he received during his lifetime."

Born in 1999, Zepa launched his YouTube channel in April 2022 and gained 150,000 subscribers in just six months. He rose rapidly in popularity with live drinking broadcasts where he interacted with fans. Although he once stopped running the channel, he resumed activities in 2024 and, in March, opened a new YouTube channel to further step up his work.
The news of Zepa's death was especially shocking because it came about a week after he launched the new channel. In response to the unexpected announcement, fellow creators Tamura Kae and Morgen, who had worked with him as part of a three-member YouTube group, expressed their deep condolences.
The specific cause of Zepa's death has not been disclosed.

hsg@fnnews.com Han Seung-gon Reporter