SHINee members and K-pop fans pay tribute to the late Jonghyun
December 18 would never be the same for many K-pop fans, more specifically SHAWOLs, as it is the day that they commemorate the beautiful life of SHINee's Jonghyun.
Kim Jong-hyun, known mononymously as Jonghyun, debuted as the main vocalist of SHINee in 2008 and built a reputation for being a talented singer and songwriter. He composed and wrote several songs for SHINee and other artists, including IU, Lee Hi, and EXO, that have been loved by fans.
In commemoration of his passing, many fans have trended the hashtags “#StayStrongShawols,” “#YouDidWellJonghyun,” and “#Jonghyun” on Twitter.
His group SHINee first honored Jonghyun by posting his photo with the quote “I always love you” written in Korean.
The post prompted many fans to share their stories about the late singer and how he inspired them to remain strong through his music.
One fan said, “My prettiest Kim Jonghyun, it has been three years, but nothing has changed from me -- that I love you so much. Thank you for keeping me alive, for being in a place where I can find you. I'll find you and be your fan again in the next life too. Please be happy, love.”
Another netizen wrote, “I wanted to spend much more time with you, but I will always be grateful for the time you gave us. I am still dancing to your music, smiling when you smile, and be deeply moved by your wise comforting words. I miss you always, but I hope you are at peace. You did so well. I love you.”
Not to miss out are members Key and Minho, who paid their respects for Jonghyun by posting their old photos together.
“I miss you so much. I love you,” penned Key.
Meanwhile, Minho wrote, "Forever SHINee five."
Megastar Sharon Cuneta, known for being a loud and proud SHAWOL, also paid tribute to the late singer as she reposts several videos of Jonghyun performing on stage.
One post even revealed Sharon's dream of honoring the SHINee member on stage by performing his 2015 single “End of a Day.”
Earlier this year, Jonghyun's Instagram account was memorialized by the photo-sharing platform as a way for fans to visit and revisit the account.
His official account, @jonghyun.948, remains active on the site and is seen with the word “remembering” in his profile area.
According to Instagram, this feature is a place for people to remember someone's life after they've passed away. The posts that were shared, including photos and videos, will remain on Instagram and its audience.
Similarly, Jonghyun's Twitter account remains active for fans, both old and new, to visit.
Get to know more about Jonghyun and his life as a member of SHINee in this gallery: