Influencer Paul J. Kim has shared the devastating news that his five-year-old son, Micah, has died after a serious case of influenza.
Kim, a Catholic content creator, posted the update on New Year’s Day. He said Micah passed away on December 31—just 11 days after being admitted to hospital.
In an emotional Instagram video, Kim thanked supporters for praying and checking in. He said the past 11 days were “incredibly difficult” for his family and described it as the hardest experience of his life. While he asked for privacy as they grieve, he explained he wanted to share an update out of gratitude. Kim also said he believes Micah is in heaven and that his son’s story is already helping others.
Micah was first taken to hospital on December 21 with a severe case of flu. His condition later worsened and he developed sepsis, a dangerous reaction where the body’s immune system can harm its own tissues. Doctors treated him, but he did not recover. After spending time in intensive care, he reportedly had no brain activity. He died on New Year’s Eve.
Kim said coming home without Micah—without the usual running, laughter, and noise—felt “heart-wrenching” and deeply unsettling.
