SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA – AUGUST 5, 2026 Japanese fan of the K-pop group ENHYPEN, known online as Mina, died at the age of 26 following a series of events that sparked widespread criticism on social media. The case became the subject of discussions about the boundaries of fandom and the impact of online attacks.
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Mina had been a longtime supporter of the group ENHYPEN and mainly focused on member Ni-ki. The controversy began after a concert in the United States, where, according to fan accounts, she threw a bouquet of sunflowers onto the stage. The flowers were later picked up by group member Sunoo, even though Mina allegedly wanted them to reach Ni-ki.
The incident sparked criticism from parts of the fandom, which described her behavior as inappropriate. Comments criticizing her actions and other claims regarding her relationship with the group then began spreading online. Mina later posted an apology, stating that because of her frequent participation in fan events, she had lost the proper sense of distance between herself and the group members.
In the following days, she posted several emotional videos and livestreams in which she talked about the hateful comments and criticism she had faced. During her final livestream, according to available information, she died by suicide. In front of viewers watching her stream, she hanged herself.
Police were called after one of her followers raised concerns about her safety. Mina was later found dead at her residence in Seoul. The case is being investigated by South Korean authorities.
Her death sparked further discussion about the effects of mass online criticism and how quickly a dispute within an online community can turn into a widespread attack against an individual.
This case also reminds us how important it is to take mental health seriously – both for public figures and for people around us. The online environment can be very harsh, and anonymity often amplifies negative behavior that can have real consequences. If someone is struggling with mental difficulties, anxiety, or feelings of hopelessness, it is important not to be alone with it and not to be afraid to seek help from loved ones, professionals, or crisis hotlines.
MORE PHOTOS OF MINA:
If you’re thinking about suicide, please stop and recognize that your pain is not permanent, but this step would be. It may feel like there’s no other way, but there is hope, even if it’s hard to see right now. Your feelings are temporary, and with help, they can pass.
Talking about what you're going through might feel difficult, but it’s the first step toward healing. Don’t turn away from the people who want to support you. Life can offer more than what you're feeling right now, and the pain doesn't have to last forever. You deserve help, and it’s available.
If you need immediate help, please contact a helpline.
