Key expressed his gratitude to fans

SHINee member Key expressed his gratitude to fans after performing despite battling an illness.

Key participated in SMTOWN LIVE 2025 [THE CULTURE, THE FUTURE] in SEOUL, held on January 11–12 at the Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul. Despite being unwell, Key delivered powerful performances of "Gasoline" and "Villain," thrilling global fans. It was later revealed that he had taken the stage while suffering from a severe cold. Videos shared on various online communities showed Key being assisted by fellow member Minho after collapsing as the stage lights dimmed.

On January 12, Key addressed fans through a fan community platform, saying, "Guys, to be honest, I wasn’t feeling well starting yesterday. I managed to get through it with medicine and tea, but I felt much worse today and went to the hospital. Thankfully, the test for influenza A came back negative, so it seems to be just a severe cold."

He added, "I completely lost my voice in the morning and thought, 'Maybe it’ll get better by the evening.' But I realized I wouldn’t be able to perform 'Light' today, so I wanted to say I’m really sorry. To SHINee World who came to the venue and those cheering from afar, I’m so sorry and thankful. I’ll recover quickly and come back soon."

With the successful conclusion of the Seoul concert, SMTOWN LIVE 2025 is set to kick off its global tour in May.

Written by Lee Seung Hun

Translated by Lee So Yun