The 8th of April marks what would have been the 36th birthday of SHINee member, Kim Jonghyun. Even seven years after his passing, his impact on the music world and the hearts of countless fans remains profound. Yesterday, SHINee and fellow member Minho took to social media to remember Jonghyun, sharing touching tributes that resonated deeply with the SHAWOL community.
SHINee‘s official social media accounts posted photos of Jonghyun in his element – singing with a radiant smile, microphone in hand. These images, filled with the vibrancy and passion he exuded on stage, served as a poignant reminder of the immense talent and captivating presence that Jonghyun brought to the world.
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Adding to the heartfelt commemorations, SHINee’s Minho shared a personal photo with Jonghyun on his own social media as soon as the clock struck midnight. Accompanied by the simple yet deeply meaningful caption,
“Happy birthday. I miss you always.”
Jonghyun’s passing on December 18, 2017, at the young age of 27, left an indelible mark on the K-pop industry and the SHINee fanbase. Yet, his legacy continues to live on through his music, his artistry, and the unwavering love of those who knew and admired him.
Beyond personal tributes, Jonghyun’s spirit of compassion and support for fellow artists is being carried forward through the Bichina Foundation. Established by his mother in the fall of 2018 using his copyright royalties, the foundation provides scholarship programs for young artists navigating the challenging early stages of their careers without agency support.
In a moving update from the foundation’s official account on Jonghyun’s birthday, his sister, Kim So-dam, shared her own journey and the foundation’s mission.
“This is my first formal greeting in front of the camera.”
she began, expressing a feeling of having been “hiding” but now finding ways to share her inner stories. She acknowledged the shared experiences of loneliness and struggle, emphasizing the belief that these challenges don’t have to end in isolation.
“I hope we can create moments to overcome it together, not being stuck in that time,” she stated, echoing the foundation’s commitment to fostering a supportive environment for young creatives.
Last year, SHINee commemorated their 16th debut anniversary by creating five friendship rings, a touching gesture that included Jonghyun, symbolizing his eternal place within the group.
