Who Is Jonghyun? Age, Biography, and Wiki
Jonghyun, born on April 8, 1990, sadly passed away in December 2017. He was a South Korean singer-songwriter, famous for being a member of the iconic boy band SHINee. Even beyond his tragic early departure, his legacy continues to shine bright. In 2025, he would have turned 35 years old and would likely still be remembered as one of K-pop's most talented artists. His work not only defined SHINee’s sound but also showcased his unique artistry as a solo performer, with several hit songs and albums to his name.
| Occupation | Pop Singer |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | April 8, 1990 |
| Age | 27 Years |
| Birth Place | Seoul, South Korea |
| Horoscope | Aries |
| Country | South Korea |
| Date of death | 18 December, 2017 |
| Died Place | Seoul, South Korea |
Popularity
Jonghyun's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Jonghyun was known for his charismatic presence on stage and captivating looks. While detailed measurements of his height and weight are not extensively documented, it is widely acknowledged that he stood at approximately 173 cm (5 feet 8 inches) tall and weighed around 58 kg (128 lbs). His slender physique and impeccable fashion sense made him a style icon in the K-pop world.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Jonghyun was often private about his personal life. As of his passing, he did not have a publicly known boyfriend or girlfriend, as he focused primarily on his career. Reports indicated that he had been linked romantically to individuals within the industry, but he never confirmed any of these rumors publicly. His dedication to music seemed to take precedence over his personal relationships during his life.
Jonghyun remained musically active as the vocalist of Shinee and as a solo artist until his death on December 18, 2017, when he died by suicide. His final album, Poet | Artist, was released posthumously on January 23, 2018.
It was announced, prior to the release, that all profits from the album would be given to Jonghyun's mother and be used to start a charity foundation. In September 2018, the Shiny Foundation was established by Jonghyun's family to help struggling young artists.
Net Worth and Salary
At the time of his passing, Jonghyun was estimated to have a net worth of around $8 million. His income primarily stemmed from his successful music career, which included production, writing, and performances with SHINee as well as his solo projects. In 2025, the impact of his music continues to earn posthumous recognition, further solidifying his financial legacy.
Career, Business, and Investments
Jonghyun's career took off with SHINee when they debuted in 2008. He was known for his incredible vocal range and songwriting skills, contributing to many of the group's hits. His solo projects, including the album "She Is," showcased his versatility and artistry. Jonghyun also pursued interests in songwriting and had his own radio show, which allowed him to connect with fans on a deeper level.
His investments in music publishing and producing also hinted at a keen business acumen, ensuring that his artistic legacy remains financially viable even after his passing.
During middle school he became involved in a school band. He studied at Seoul Practical Music High School, but dropped out in 10th grade to pursue a music career. He later attended Chungwoon University before transferring to Myongji University, where he received a master's degree in film and musical studies.
Social Network
Jonghyun was active on social media during his life, particularly on platforms like Instagram where he shared glimpses of his personal life, behind-the-scenes moments, and reflections on his music. Today, his social media presence continues to inspire and be cherished by fans worldwide, with dedications and posts celebrating his artistry and life.
Jonghyun was also a solo artist, beginning in January 2015 with the release of his first EP album, Base. It peaked at number one on both the Billboard World Albums Chart and the Gaon Album Chart. On September 17 the same year, Jonghyun released a compilation album, Story Op.1.
His debut studio album, She Is, was released on May 24, 2016, followed by his second compilation album, Story Op.2, on April 24, 2017. Jonghyun began his first solo concert tour, The Story by Jonghyun, on October 2, 2015. This was followed by three further concert tours in later years. He was regarded as one of the best vocalists in South Korea.
He also received praise for his artistic control and involvement in the creation of his music.
Education
Jonghyun was known for his dedication to both music and education. He attended Konkuk University, where he studied related subjects that would enhance his knowledge in the music industry. His commitment to learning and self-improvement drove many of his creative endeavors, reflecting in his rich discography.
