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PLEDIS Entertainment issued an official statement in the early hours of Monday announcing the passing of Han Jihoon’s father, who died on January 11 following a recent decline in health. The 19-year-old TWS member is currently attending a private family funeral service at an undisclosed funeral hall, where immediate relatives and close family friends have gathered to honor the deceased.
In the statement released to local and international media outlets, the agency emphasized the need for privacy as Jihoon navigates this difficult period: “We ask that fans and the public extend warm support and understanding as Jihoon takes time to mourn with his loved ones. The family has requested that all services remain strictly private to allow them space to grieve together.”
News of the loss has resonated deeply with the global K-pop community, with supporters across Asia, Europe, and the Americas flooding social media platforms with messages of condolence. Hashtags including #StayStrongJihoon and #WithJihoon trended on Twitter for over six hours following the announcement, with fans sharing personal notes, fan art, and prayers for the idol and his family. International fan clubs from Japan, Brazil, and Germany have organized virtual vigils and dedicated online spaces for supporters to come together in solidarity.
TWS, a six-member boy group under HYBE Labels subsidiary PLEDIS Entertainment, made their debut in 2025 with a distinctive “boyhood pop” sound that quickly garnered attention for its bright, nostalgic melodies and energetic performances. The group’s debut single album topped domestic music charts for three consecutive weeks, establishing them as one of the year’s most promising new acts. Prior to the announcement, the group had been preparing for a regional showcase tour set to kick off in Seoul later this month; PLEDIS Entertainment noted that all upcoming schedule details will be updated in due course, with the priority placed on Jihoon’s well-being.
Industry peers have also expressed their support, with artists from SEVENTEEN, fromis_9, and other HYBE-affiliated groups sharing public messages of sympathy. A representative from the Korea Entertainment Producers Association stated, “In times like these, the industry stands together to support our artists and their families. We send our deepest condolences to Jihoon and his loved ones.”
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