The music world is mourning the loss of South Korean solo artist Jin Denim, who passed away at the young age of 29. The heartbreaking news was confirmed by his younger sister, Danbee, in a detailed and emotional joint statement posted on Instagram. She chose to make the announcement public on what would have been his 30th birthday.
Sister's Statement Clarifies Cause of Death
In her post, Danbee provided crucial details to counter speculation and set the record straight. She confirmed that Jin Denim (real name Jin Jeong-yeop) died on the evening of December 17, 2025. The family held a private funeral with only close relatives present, as they were grappling with the immediate shock and loss.
Danbee was explicit in stating that her brother's death resulted from an accident, not suicide. She addressed recent allegations directly, writing, "Hello, this is the younger sister of Jin. On the evening of December 17, 2025, my brother Jin passed away due to an accident." She explained the family's decision to share the news later, saying they felt it was right to provide accurate information to his fans and those who cherished his music.
Long Battle with Mental Health
The statement offered a poignant glimpse into Jin Denim's personal struggles. Danbee revealed that he had been receiving treatment since 2015 for bipolar affective disorder and psychotic symptoms. She emphasized that Jin was fully aware of his condition and made continuous efforts to manage it through medical treatment and prescribed medication.
However, his condition deteriorated rapidly in recent times. "In recent times his symptoms worsened rapidly, reaching a point where it became difficult for the family to manage the situation," Danbee shared. She described how impulsive behaviors, a symptom of his condition, occurred repeatedly and were not acts of his own will, causing immense suffering for both Jin and his family over a long period.
She made a final, clear clarification: "We would like to make it clear that the cause of his death was not suicide, but a fatal fall resulting from his medical condition."
Remembering Jin Through His Music and Faith
Despite his challenges, Danbee painted a picture of a man who lived with faith and love. "Even during his illness, Jin tried to sustain his life through his faith and lived striving to share love and belief with those around him," she wrote.
She shared a touching sentiment often expressed by Jin during his lifetime: "The day I leave will be a joyful day, for I will be going to heaven, so please do not be sad." In that spirit, while acknowledging the deep sorrow of his passing, the family believes he has found peace. Danbee urged fans to remember him through his music and the warm memories he left behind, rather than only through grief.
Jin Denim is laid to rest at Evergreen Memorial Park in Anseong, Gyeonggi-do, in the lawn area. His sister kindly offered to help anyone who wished to visit but had difficulty understanding the directions she provided with a photo.
His final Instagram post, fittingly, showed a photograph of St. Nicholas Cathedral in Ahyun-dong, with a caption stating he had participated in the Eucharistic Mass there on September 1st.
As an artist, Jin Denim released his debut album Dear, Stefi in 2021. While he did not achieve mainstream commercial fame, he cultivated a dedicated fanbase and performed at several music festivals, including the notable New Talents Project Festival 2025 in Barcelona. His legacy, as his sister hopes, will live on through his artistic contributions and the love he shared.
