SHINee's Taemin records heartwarming message for fans on his birthday, Shawols say 'we're lucky to have him'
SHINee's Taemin celebrated his 27th birthday (28th in Korean age) by sharing a heartfelt voice letter for the group's fans who have been by their side since their debut in 2008.
The voice note, shared to the group's social media, began rather adorably, with the idol stating, "Hi. I feel really shy recording this," before sharing it was July 18, his birthday and encouraging a round of applause. He continued, "This is already the 13th birthday I am celebrating with everyone. There have been many happy days since I debuted and even though there were some tough days..." After trailing off for a second, Taemin went on, "Because our partners have stayed by my side the whole time, I think these 13 birthdays of mine have always been happy. So, I would like to give you guys a gift in return, that's why I prepared a voice letter today."
The letter goes on to discuss the various reasons Taemin has been unable to put out fresh content recently, which include Covid-19 restrictions and repeated delays on his comeback activities. Addressing fans' unwavering support, he stated he was "touched," and apologized for being unable to meet them in person during concerts. Adding that he has difficulty expressing himself, and quoting the lyrics "There's a limit to words" and "It can't be expressed with words" from 'Play Me', he asked fans if they can tell he's been working hard to get better at it before sharing that their love was the greatest factor in helping him learn and grow and as he ages, the importance and space that the group's fans hold in his life grows as well.
Taemin also mused about how well fans understand what he has to say, going off nothing more than the look in his eye and shared that the feeling was mutual: "You guys should be careful because I can see it, the moment you've done something wrong. That shows how much we trust each other doesn't it?"
Concluding with a promise to return as "a singer called Taemin" who can proudly share what he has been working on, the idol stated, "I am preparing various things for you guys, so please look forward to it." He added, "Lastly, thank you so much for congratulating me on my 28th birthday. Please continue to be by my side in my 29th, 30th, 50th, and 100th birthday as well. I'm really shy but I will say this just once, please listen well: I love you. Let's meet each other healthily soon!"
Fans were soon wishing the idol and each other a "Happy Taemin Day." Several fans felt apologetic, sharing, "I don't know why I am crying. I just really felt his sincerity. I felt lacking as a fan. I did not really do anything for him aside from streaming music videos, buying albums and watching a concert once. Sorry, Taemin. All I can do is to support you until the end." "Happy birthday Taemin and thanks for creating such great music. We all will wait for you thus u should take care and get well," stated one fan, several shared the voice note had them in tears, one fan said, "His words are beyond beautiful..." and one tweet read, "I love him, he's so precious., thoughtful and kind. We are all so lucky in this world to have Taemin."
Acknowledging the mutual relationship the group and their fandom, Shawols, have, one fan stated, "Love how Taemin said he can see when we do something wrong. SHINee keeping Shawols in check / the bond of SHINee world," while another shared, " We are so lucky to be Shawol and received unconditional love from our SHINee." And the birthday wishes continue, with one fan stating, "It’s a good day to appreciate Taemin and his talent. Happy birthday handsome," and another tweeting, "Happy birthday to our precious Taemin...wish you great health, more success in the future, and all your dreams come true!"