Young K-pop Star Jaehyun Dies of Leukemia
SHIM JAEHYUN – A former member of the K-pop boy group F.ABLE has passed away at just 23 years old after a quiet but difficult battle with leukemia.
The heartbreaking news surfaced on June 29, 2025, through emotional posts shared by his close friends, fellow artists, and devoted fans on social media. Although his family has not released an official statement, the online tributes revealed that Jaehyun had been privately fighting leukemia for several years.
Leukemia is a type of blood cancer that affects the body’s ability to produce healthy blood cells. It begins in the bone marrow and leads to the rapid growth of abnormal white blood cells. These abnormal cells eventually crowd out the healthy ones, weakening the body’s immune system. Some forms of leukemia show few or no symptoms in their early stages, which is why it is often referred to as a “silent killer.” According to health data from 2020, it ranked as the 11th deadliest cancer worldwide.
Shim Jaehyun made his debut with F.ABLE in June 2020 under Haeirum Entertainment. As the youngest member, or maknae, and the main vocalist of the group, he quickly captured the hearts of many fans with his talent, energy, and charm. The group released several tracks, including fan favorites like “Burn It Up” and “Run Run Run.”
By mid-2023, the group had quietly become inactive. Although there was no formal disbandment announcement, fans believed the members had gone their separate ways—especially after Sihoon, Junhyeong, and Jeong re-debuted as part of a new group, ENPHAZE, in December 2024.
Jaehyun’s passing has left a lasting impact on the K-pop community. Fans continue to honor his memory, remembering him not only for his voice and talent but also for his quiet strength and kind heart.