SHINee Member Key Pens Heartbreaking Letter to Jonghyun Following His Death

SHINee‘s Kim Ki-bum, better known as Key, is mourning the loss of his dear friend and bandmate Kim Jong-Hyun, or Jonghyun, who tragically died on Monday (December 18).

Following Jonghyun‘s funeral on Thursday (December 21), Key posted a photo on Instagram that featured a handwritten note and a ring given to him by Jonghyun in a bracelet set.

“I sent you off today and saw your face yesterday, but I still can’t believe it. I’m sorry for visiting you so late because of work, and I’m sorry I wasn’t a source of strength when you were lonely,” he wrote.

“Don’t be too worried that you left before us. I’ll respect and look after your mom and sister like my own family,” he continued. “I’ll miss you for a very long time. I’m worried because the person who always took my side at meetings is gone now. You and I talked the most during our meetings…I’ll have to get used to not having you here now.”

Read the full heartbreaking letter below.

If you or anyone you know is at risk, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, and click here to find resources outside of the United States.

“To Jonghyun hyung who I love, Hyung, this is Kibum. I sent you off today and saw your face yesterday, but I still can’t believe it. I’m sorry for visiting you so late because of work, and I’m sorry I wasn’t a source of strength when you were lonely. You and I were the two most stubborn members of our group, so we had to do everything we wanted to do. You did everything you wanted, and in the end, you made the decision and left us first… it was really hard at first, but after spending time with only you for the past three days, I think I understand how you felt. Don’t be too worried that you left before us. I’ll respect and look after your mom and sister like my own family. I’ll miss you for a very long time. I’m worried because the person who always took my side at meetings is gone now. You and I talked the most during our meetings… I’ll have to get used to not having you here now. I’m going to try living a better life too. When I get older and meet you again, tell me I did well. Jonghyun hyung, you were the best artist, friend, hyung, and colleague to me. You worked hard, and I love you so much!”

(English translation via AllKPop.)