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Is Taemin OK? Fans worried as SHINee star's depression worsens after joining army

'..His symptoms recently worsened, the military determined that it had become impossible for him to continue his military life,' shared his agency

Taemin, one of the most beloved members of the boy band SHINee has raised concerns among the global fanbase after the shocking revelation of his mental health issues. The 28-year-old K-pop star was diagnosed with depression and anxiety and his symptoms started worsening during active service in the military. Accordingly, he was transferred to the public service department from the military band, where he will now be completing the remainder of his mandatory military service. 

As soon as the news of Taemin's depression and anxiety was revealed by SHINee's agency SM Entertainment, millions of fans worldwide flooded social media with support and solidarity for the singer. "We apologize for giving you cause for concern through this sudden news, and we will continue to focus on Taemin’s treatment in the future and do our utmost to ensure that he can find stability," SM Entertainment added towards the end of their public statement. Presently, Taemin is believed to be undergoing therapy and treatment to recover​ from his mental health challenges. 

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On January 14, 2022, SM Entertainment released the heartbreaking news of Taemin's struggle, along with updates about his military service. In a press release, the management agency noted, "This is SM Entertainment.
As of January 14, Taemin has been transferred from the military band to supplementary service."

They further added, "Due to the symptoms of depression and anxiety that Taemin has been suffering from before [his enlistment], he continued to receive treatment and therapy even while carrying out his service. However, because his symptoms recently worsened, the military determined that it had become impossible for him to continue his military life and treatment at the same time, and he was accordingly transferred to supplementary service. Therefore, Taemin plans to fulfill his military duty as a public service worker."

The news left million of SHINee fans or Shawols shocked and devastated, as one of them tweeted, "Hearing that genuinely broke my heart fr taemin doesn’t deserve any of that. i hope the help he’s seeking does him well + taemin gets extra love and support along the way, wherever he is."

Another fan wrote an open letter to him saying, "Taemin, you did great job and you are doing great.. I’m very proud of you that you are getting the help you need and I hope this will help you find stability and strength & inner peace Be gentle to yourself I love you and I’m faithfully waiting for you ㅠ <3"

"Get well soon, one of my 5 stars, Taemin @SHINee #TAEMIN. May you heart be filled with peace & happiness again, very soon. I hope you and us Shawols can exchange happy smile again in the future :)," a third fan noted.

A fourth fan shared, "taemin, in such a short period of time you became my brightest light you truly deserve all the happiness in the world. i hope you get to cuddle with kkoongie and see your hyungs to heal your heart now. we will always be by your side #WeLoveYouTaemin"