Former F.ABLE member Jaehyun dies at 23 after battle with leukemia

Shim Jaehyun, known as Jaehyun and formerly a member of the K-pop boy group F.ABLE, has passed away at the age of 23. The news of his death was shared on June 29 through acquaintances and later confirmed by fans and former colleagues online.

Jaehyun had been quietly fighting leukemia in recent years. His illness was not made widely public, and many fans only learned of his condition after his passing. The details surrounding his diagnosis and treatment remain private.

Born on April 7, 2002, Jaehyun debuted with F.ABLE in June 2020 under Haeirum Entertainment. As the group’s youngest member, he took on the role of vocalist and maknae, earning fans' affection for his soft-spoken personality and bright energy during promotions. Though F.ABLE remained relatively unknown in the wider K-pop landscape, those who followed the group often spoke of the close bond between its members and the sincere effort they put into every performance.

The group released a handful of digital singles during their active years, including “Burn It Up” and “Run Run Run,” before eventually becoming inactive around mid-2023. Three of the five members later re-debuted in a new project called ENPHAZE, leading many to believe the group had disbanded without a formal announcement. Jaehyun did not rejoin any subsequent activities, and little was publicly known about his personal life following F.ABLE’s disbandment.

Following the announcement of his death, former F.ABLE member Hojun posted a heartfelt tribute on social media, expressing regret over losing contact and thanking Jaehyun for their years together. Fans also shared messages online, many mourning not just the loss of a young life but the quiet way he seemed to have endured his final years.

At the time of this article, funeral arrangements have not been shared with the public, and it is unclear whether any official memorial will be held. Messages of condolence continue to spread through fan communities, many of whom have followed Jaehyun since his debut and are now revisiting his past performances to remember his presence.

Though his time in the spotlight was brief, Jaehyun leaves behind memories of a gentle spirit, a passionate performer, and a young man who gave his all to the path he chose. His passing has touched many, and those who knew of him continue to honor his name and his efforts.