IN A surprising turn of events, South Korean idol Seunghan bid farewell to the K-pop boy group RIIZE, with whom he made his debut a year ago. 

Wizard Production—a division of South Korean entertainment company SM Entertainment that handles the fifth-generation boy group—announced Seunghan’s departure, two days after it was announced that he would return to RIIZE after almost a year of hiatus.

In its statement translated by South Korean media outlet Soompi, the company said they thought bringing Seunghan back to the boy group would “give the artist and the fans greater joy.” However, they realized that their decision “has actually hurt fans more and caused them greater confusion.”

It also clarified that Seunghan decided to leave RIIZE, to which they agreed “out of respect for the artist’s decision.”

“We will support Seunghan in the future so that he can showcase his talents and follow his dreams,” it said.

The company also apologized to fans for the “confusion” brought by their initial announcement about Seunghan’s return, as well as to the other RIIZE members for “creating hardships.”

Two months after he debuted in RIIZE, Seunghan halted his group activities after his personal life issues emerged. 

Several photos and videos leaked online showed Seunghan smoking a cigarette and kissing an unidentified woman, which were taken before he debuted in RIIZE. Such actions drew criticism from some conservative fans. 

Meanwhile, several international fans were not happy with Seunghan’s departure from RIIZE, slamming the company for “failing to protect” its artist.

Seunghan’s letter

The K-pop idol also penned a letter to his fans on Weverse, explaining his decision to leave RIIZE.

In his handwritten letter translated by Soompi, Seunghan said he no longer wants to bring “confusion” to the fans and “harm” his co-members and the company. 

He also said that he does not want the relationship between RIIZE and their fans, collectively known as BRIIZE, “to be damaged” because of him.

Seunghan thanked his members and their company for giving him “another opportunity.”

“I will sincerely cheer on RIIZE, whom I love, while hoping that they will receive more love in the future.” 

About RIIZE

With Seunghan’s departure, RIIZE will continue their activities with six members: Anton, Sohee, Wonbin, Eunseok, Shotaro, and Sungchan.

RIIZE officially entered the K-pop scene with the release of their debut single “Get a Guitar.”

They have since been making waves in the industry with their exceptional vocal prowess and dancing skills, which they showcased in their hit songs “Talk Saxy,” “Love 119,” “Siren,” and “Boom Boom Bass,” among others.

RIIZE last visited the Philippines in July 2024 for their “RIIZING DAY” fan concert tour.