Former ENHYPEN member Heeseung, now known professionally as Evan, has revealed for the first time that he battled cancer as a child.
In an interview with Weverse Magazine published on September 3, Evan disclosed that he was diagnosed with malignant lymphoma while he was in fourth grade.
He explained that the illness initially appeared to be an ordinary cough, but his condition became more serious when he suddenly struggled to breathe while playing soccer. A hospital examination eventually confirmed the cancer diagnosis.
Evan recalled that undergoing treatment was difficult, but his mother’s constant care encouraged him to remain positive. During his time in the hospital, he participated in talent shows, playing guitar and helping host activities for other patients.
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How the experience shapes his work
He also spoke about how difficult it was to return to everyday life after treatment, particularly because he had “less energy” and was teased about his hair as it grew back following chemotherapy.
“I had a lot less energy, and since my hair was still growing back from chemo, I got teased a lot for it. My friends would be like, ‘What is that, grass? You’re like a monk.’ But I just took it because I wanted to fit in,” he recalled.
The singer said the experience continues to influence his perspective and creative work. His upcoming solo Extended Play, “Death of Me,” reflects themes of survival, perseverance and hope.
Evan explained that the title track draws from his experience of coming close to death and his belief that difficult moments do not necessarily mark the end. He hopes listeners, particularly his fans known as EVER, can find encouragement in the message.
Fans react with outpouring of affection and relief
Meanwhile, netizens reacted with shock and emotion after the revelation. Online discussions described the story as heartbreaking while praising Evan’s strength for sharing such a private part of his childhood.
“He survived childhood cancer, watched his hospital friends pass away, got bullied for his chemo hair, and still chose to become the gentlest human alive. I’m so proud of him,” someone commented on a TikTok edit of Evan, where fans are expressing sympathy following the news.
“He’s been keeping this a secret for 6 years and only feels comfortable enough to share it with Evers now,” another added.
Many expressed relief that he survived and said the disclosure gave them a deeper appreciation of his resilience and music.
Evan’s revelation comes as he begins a new chapter as a solo artist, following his departure from ENHYPEN earlier this year. His story has added a deeply personal dimension to the music he is preparing to share with listeners.
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