The Ethical and Pragmatic Decision: BTS’ Absence from Kim Jonghyun’s Funeral

When news broke of Kim Jonghyun, the late member of the beloved K-pop group SHINee, passing away in December 2017, the world of entertainment and fan communities were deeply saddened. Among those who expressed their condolences were his friend and collaborator, BTS. The decision of BTS not to attend the funeral of Kim Jonghyun is often misunderstood and scrutinized. This article aims to delve into the complexities that influenced their choice and shed light on the ethical and practical considerations.

The Nature of Decision-Making

Attending a funeral, while a deeply personal and emotionally charged act, involves several intricacies. These include the nature of the relationship, the individual’s availability, and the personal and professional commitments. For public figures like members of BTS, the considerations extend to management and media scrutiny. BTS, despite their close friendship with Kim Jonghyun and their status as prominent artists, chose not to be present at the funeral. This decision was not made lightly but rather based on a careful evaluation of all factors involved.

The Context of Kim Jonghyun’s Funeral

Kim Jonghyun’s funeral was a significant event, spanning three days of public mourning dedicated to honoring his memory. Given the scale of public interest and the media coverage, it is important to consider the practical and emotional impact of such an attendance. While BTS and their fans might wish for their presence, the reality of the situation required a more pragmatic and sensitive approach.

Personal Relationships and Professional Commitments

BTS has long been a part of the K-pop industry, collaborating with many fellow artists. Their friendship with Jonghyun was genuine, and they even made visits to the funeral house. Bighit, the management company of BTS, also sent a condolence wreath, a gesture that reflects their deep respect for Kim Jonghyun. However, BTS, being a globally recognized group, have numerous commitments, from tour dates to album releases, which often leave them with tight schedules.

Ethical Considerations

While the decision to visit or not visit a funeral can be seen from both ethical and emotional perspectives, it is important to recognize the broader implications. BTS, like any other public figure, must weigh the emotional desire to honor a friend with the responsibility to their audience and their professional commitments. Their presence at Kim Jonghyun’s funeral would have put a spotlight on a private moment of mourning, which might not have been beneficial for all parties involved.

Conclusion

The absence of BTS at Kim Jonghyun’s funeral was a result of a careful consideration of both personal and professional aspects. Their focus on respectful gestures like leaving a wreath and making personal visits to the funeral house, along with their overall support and friendship, speaks to their genuine compassion and deep connection with their fellow artist. BTS’s decision to not be present in person was a balanced approach that respected the memory of a loved one while also adhering to their professional duties and personal values. This decision is a testament to the complexity of handling such sensitive situations in the public eye.