On December 19, Key took to his social media account to post a photo of Jonghyun with the caption, “smile brother smile. miss you.” The image features Jonghyun in a white suit, standing expressionless.
December 18, 2025 marked the 8th year since Jonghyun’s tragic passing. This post comes shortly after Key became embroiled in controversy involving a so-called “Injection Aunt” — a figure connected to unauthorized medical treatments. Comedienne Park Na Rae was also involved in the same scandal. On December 17, SM Entertainment released an official statement clarifying Key’s involvement, stating:
“Key visited a clinic in Gangnam based on a friend’s recommendation and initially believed Ms. Lee (the Injection Aunt) to be a licensed physician. He continued to receive treatment there, including a few house visits. It wasn’t until the recent license controversy that he realized she was not a certified doctor. He is deeply reflecting on his ignorance.”
Key also personally apologized, expressing shame and regret for disappointing his fans:
“I believed I could stay away from such issues, but that mindset blinded me from examining my surroundings more carefully. I feel deeply sorry and ashamed to those who have supported and trusted me.”
As a result of the scandal, Key has temporarily stepped down from his appearances on MBC’s “I Live Alone” and tvN’s “Amazing Saturday.”
While the post was likely made with heartfelt intentions, many netizens found both the image and the message unsettling. The delay in the tribute, coming after the official anniversary, further fueled criticism. The situation was compounded by Key’s involvement in the medical scandal involving treatment from an unlicensed practitioner — a controversy that has already drawn public scrutiny.
Online forums and social media quickly filled with mixed reactions. Some users described the post as “eerie” and questioned the motive behind the timing. Others interpreted it as poorly thought out, especially given that Key had released a public apology for the medical controversy just a day prior.
Comments from netizens included:
- “This is just weird and creepy. It’s not even the right date.”
- “That caption gives me chills, not comfort.”
- “He posts a statement during the anniversary, then this the next day?”
- “He doesn’t seem to grasp how people feel about him right now.”
Sources: Daum, Koreaboo
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