The world of Korean sports and modeling is in mourning following the untimely death of popular Road FC model, Shin Haeri, also known by her real name, Shin Hwa Jin. At just 32, Shin Haeri passed away, leaving behind a legacy cherished by fans and colleagues alike.
News of her passing first broke on September 14, 2024, when racing model Jo Inyoung shared a heartfelt message on social media, urging fans to offer their prayers and condolences. “Please offer deep condolences and prayers for Haeri, so she won’t feel lonely on her final journey,” Jo wrote, capturing the sentiment of those who knew Haeri personally.
Shin Haeri’s funeral service is being held at Deojeoun Care Hospital in Nowon-gu, Seoul, with the burial set for the afternoon of September 15. Fans and loved ones are gathering to pay their respects, mourning the loss of a young woman whose presence in the entertainment world was both influential and endearing.
In the days leading up to her passing, Shin Haeri remained active on social media, with posts still appearing as recently as three days before her death. In one of her final posts, she shared a personal reflection, saying, “Now that I’m losing weight, my face looks sharper… Should I cut my hair more or let it grow? I can’t decide.” The post, seemingly light-hearted, now stands as a poignant reminder of the vibrant and relatable personality her followers adored.
Following the announcement of her passing, her social media has been flooded with messages of love and sympathy. Fans and friends have written notes such as, “We’ll miss you, dear,” “Lay down your heavy burdens and rest in peace,” and “May you soar freely in a better place.” The outpouring of grief shows the deep connection she formed with her audience over the years.
Shin Haeri first gained attention in 2012, when she competed in the Miss Korea Gyeongsangnam-do preliminaries. Her charm and striking beauty earned her a place in the public eye, and by 2014, she had established herself as a racing model. Her career flourished, and from 2014 to 2019, she was a prominent figure in the racing scene.
In 2018, Haeri took on a new challenge, becoming a model for the Korean MMA organization, Road FC. Her involvement with Road FC marked a significant shift in her career, and she quickly became a fan favorite. Her dedication and love for the sport and the organization were evident to all who knew her.
Just weeks before her death, on September 2, Shin Haeri announced her retirement as a Road FC model. In a touching farewell, she expressed mixed emotions, saying, “I thought I’d feel relieved, but I even shed tears,” underscoring her deep connection to the role and the community she had become a part of. This sentiment, coupled with her sudden departure, has left many reflecting on her life and contributions.
As we remember Shin Haeri, her fans and colleagues are left with memories of a woman who brought grace and charm to both the world of racing and MMA modeling. She will be missed, but her legacy as a beloved figure in Korean entertainment will live on.
