Kim Jong-hyun, known mononymously as Jonghyun, was a multifaceted South Korean artist born on April 8, 1990. He gained prominence as the lead vocalist of the iconic boy band Shinee, where he showcased his exceptional vocal talent over a nine-year career. With Shinee, he contributed to the release of twelve albums in both Korean and Japanese, solidifying the group's status in the K-pop industry. Additionally, Jonghyun was a member of the project group SM the Ballad, where he participated in the creation of two EP albums.
In January 2015, Jonghyun embarked on a solo career, releasing his first EP, Base, which achieved remarkable success by topping both the Billboard World Albums Chart and the Gaon Album Chart. His artistic journey continued with the release of a compilation album, Story Op.1, later that year. His debut studio album, She Is, was unveiled on May 24, 2016, followed by another compilation, Story Op.2, in April 2017. Jonghyun's dedication to his craft was evident as he launched his first solo concert tour, The Story by Jonghyun, in October 2015, followed by several more tours in subsequent years.
Jonghyun was not only celebrated for his vocal prowess but also for his artistic vision and involvement in the music-making process. He remained an active figure in the music scene until his untimely death on December 18, 2017, a tragic event that shocked fans worldwide. His final album, Poet | Artist, was released posthumously on January 23, 2018, with all profits designated for his mother and a charity foundation established in his memory.
In September 2018, the Shiny Foundation was founded by Jonghyun's family to support struggling young artists, ensuring that his legacy would continue to inspire future generations. Jonghyun's impact on the music industry and his contributions to the arts remain significant, as he is remembered as one of South Korea's finest vocalists.