The K-pop community was struck with deep sorrow as news broke that Shim Jaehyun, a former member of the boy group F.ABLE, had passed away at just 23 years old. The initial word of his death began to circulate quietly on June 29, shared by those who had known him personally. It wasn’t until tributes and messages appeared on social media that fans began to understand the weight of the loss.
What made the news even more painful was the revelation that Jaehyun had been privately battling leukemia for several years. His illness had never been made public during his lifetime. Most fans only learned about it after his passing. In keeping with what seemed to be Jaehyun’s personal wish for privacy, no details have been released regarding his diagnosis, treatment, or final days.
Jaehyun was born on April 7, 2002, and stepped into the world of music with ambition and quiet strength. He debuted in June 2020 as the youngest member of F.ABLE under Haeirum Entertainment. As a vocalist, he brought warmth and softness to the group’s performances. While F.ABLE never reached widespread fame, they built a loyal following who admired their sincerity and close-knit teamwork. Jaehyun, with his gentle voice and reserved presence, held a special place in the group and in the hearts of fans.
Songs like “Burn It Up” and “Run Run Run” showcased the group’s energy and passion. For fans, these tracks now carry even deeper meaning. In mid-2023, F.ABLE quietly slipped from public activity. There was no formal announcement of a disbandment, but fans grew concerned when Jaehyun was not included in the new group ENPHAZE, which three of his former bandmates went on to debut in. His absence raised questions, but with no official statements, many assumed he had simply stepped away from the spotlight.
As it turns out, Jaehyun had been enduring his illness in silence. During the time when others moved forward with new projects, he chose to stay out of the public eye. It’s possible he wished to focus on his health and keep his condition private. Now, that quiet choice has taken on a heartbreaking weight, as fans reflect on how much he may have endured alone.
Tributes have poured in since the news broke. Former groupmate Hojun shared an emotional message on social media, filled with regret and remembrance. He wrote about wishing he could have done more, and expressed hope that Jaehyun was now at peace. His message captured what many fans were feeling: sorrow, shock, and a desire to honor Jaehyun’s memory in some meaningful way.
Fans have been revisiting old clips, stage performances, and behind-the-scenes videos, sharing their thoughts and grief online. Many expressed how much they had admired Jaehyun, even during the group’s quieter moments, and how deeply his passing has affected them.
As of now, Jaehyun’s family has chosen to keep funeral and memorial details private. There has been no official statement or public service, but fans have created their own digital spaces to mourn, post tributes, and remember his contributions as an artist and person.
