The pain of loss can reshape our world in an instant, leaving us questioning everything we once held dear. For SHINee‘s Key, the passing of his bandmate and close friend Jonghyun in 2017 brought about a period of profound grief and uncertainty, even leading him to contemplate leaving the group. His recent appearance on tvN‘s ‘You Quiz on the Block‘ offered a glimpse into the raw emotions he experienced and the enduring bond that keeps SHINee together.
“I Even Thought About Quitting Everything”
Key’s candid confession about his thoughts after Jonghyun’s death resonated deeply. He described the immense shock and the struggle to find meaning in the face of such a devastating loss.
“I was really shaken back then,” Key shared. “I questioned what it meant to live recklessly. I even thought about quitting everything.”
This vulnerability offered a powerful reminder of the human cost of tragedy, even for those in the public eye. It takes immense courage to share such personal struggles, and Key’s openness surely provided comfort and understanding to others who have experienced similar grief.
The Tokyo Dome Tribute: A Way to Move Forward
Amidst the darkness, the members of SHINee found solace in their shared commitment to honoring Jonghyun’s memory. Key explained the significance of their Tokyo Dome concert following Jonghyun’s passing.
“I was completely broken, but the Tokyo Dome concert was our way of facing it together,” he said. “We felt that if we didn’t have a moment to honor him as a group, it would be too difficult to move forward. That was how we wanted to send him off – his brilliant yet short youth.”
By coming together as a group and performing for their fans, SHINee found a way to celebrate Jonghyun’s life and begin the long process of healing.
“We Are Always Five. We Always Will Be.”
Even years later, Jonghyun’s presence remains a powerful force within SHINee. Key’s words painted a poignant picture of how Jonghyun’s memory continues to inspire and influence the group.
“Every year, when his birthday or our anniversary comes around, I miss him even more,” Key admitted. “When we get new songs that he can’t record with us, I often think, ‘He would have done such a great job with this.’”
He also shared a touching detail about Jonghyun’s continued presence in his life:
“He appears in my dreams a lot when I practice. He doesn’t say anything like an omen, but during concert meetings, he’s just sitting there. When I rehearse, he’s there.”
These heartfelt words underscored the enduring love and respect the members of SHINee have for Jonghyun, solidifying their bond not just as bandmates, but as family.
“We are always five,” Key declared. “We always will be.”
This simple yet powerful statement encapsulates the unwavering connection that binds SHINee together, a connection that transcends loss and continues to define their journey.
What do you think of Key’s heartfelt interview? Let us know below in the comment section!
