Following SM’s announcement of Seunghan’s anticipated return next month after nearly a year away, the idol has ultimately made the decision to part ways with RIIZE. In an emotional letter, he shared his thoughts and feelings with his fans.
On October 11th, Wizard Production, the management firm for RIIZE, disclosed that Seunghan would be rejoining the group after a 10-month hiatus.
Though many fans celebrated this news, OT6 K-BRIIZEs expressed their discontent on social media, engaging in bullying behaviors, including sending funeral wreaths to SM’s offices.
you kbriize are weird as hell, sending death wreath for a 21years old idol who did nothing wrong and and are very much well alive pic.twitter.com/O0TN1ntywk
— seunghan (@picseunghan) October 13, 2024
seunghan was a 19-year old kid who trained for 7 years to achieve his dream, only for that to come to an abrupt stop after being bullied, receiving de@th threats, and becoming the victim of multiple crimes…this is more than kpop, it’s about morals and human rights
— ny𓆝 (@biniired) May 20, 2024
A significant number of Korean fans issued threats towards both Seunghan and the label, vowing to make their lives “miserable”until he either chose to leave on his own terms or took drastic steps.
In contrast, international BRIIZE fans showed their support by sending food trucks, while his bandmate Wonbin publicly expressed his backing as well.
On October 13th, just two days following the upheaval, SM announced it would reverse its earlier decision, confirming Seunghan’s exit from RIIZE.
“After reflecting on the responses and opinions shared by fans regarding the announcement of his return, we have come to understand that this decision has led to further confusion and distress among our supporters.”
Hello, this is Wizard Productions. pic.twitter.com/cquJ5WyjDT
— RIIZE (@RIIZE_official) October 13, 2024
That same day, the “Talk Saxy”artist took to social media to relay the news directly to his devoted followers.
In his heartfelt handwritten letter, he expressed gratitude towards SM and RIIZE while apologizing to his supporters.
“Hello. This is Seunghan.
I understand that many people are deeply contemplating my return and the seriousness of this situation.
I have spent time reflecting on whether my thoughts have been selfish, if I have caused unnecessary harm to the members and the company, and if it is truly right for me to remain with RIIZE, a team that deserves love. All I feel is anxiety and remorse.
Thus, I believe that stepping away from the group is the best option for everyone involved.
I don’t wish to create more chaos and anguish for fans, nor do I want to harm the other members or the label further.
I sincerely thank the management and members who endeavored to offer me another chance, and I am truly grateful to those who have supported me, despite my shortcomings.
It pains me to see the fans who love RIIZE divided because of my situation. I wish for the thriving bond between RIIZE and BRIIZE to flourish without being hindered by my decisions.
I wholeheartedly hope that RIIZE, whom I cherish dearly, will continue to be embraced and loved moving forward, and I will support them with my whole heart.”
What do you think about this situation? Was Seunghan correct in choosing to leave RIIZE? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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