SM Entertainment Denies RIIZE’s Seunghan Leaving, Confirms Return Next Month
On October 11, Korean news outlet SWAY reported that Seunghan of the group RIIZE would be leaving the group after a span of 10 months. This article was subsequently taken down, sparking various speculations among fans and followers.
Following this, SM Entertainment released an official comment refuting the report about Seunghan’s departure and confirming his return to the group.
The complete statement from the agency is as follows:
“To all BRIIZE (the devoted fans of RIIZE),
Hello, this is Wizard Production, the team tasked with RIIZE’s creation.
We wish to convey some important updates to fans regarding Seunghan’s return and the future trajectory of RIIZE.
As many are aware, Seunghan has been on hiatus from group activities for nearly 10 months due to personal circumstances prior to their debut.
Seunghan has acknowledged that his past behavior was inappropriate, and he has taken significant time to reflect, expressing deep remorse to both his fellow members and his fans. His hiatus has lasted almost a year, and we, too, recognize that Seunghan’s previous actions were not what one expects from an artist, which has necessitated an extensive deliberation period about his return.
We sincerely apologize for the lack of early communication regarding Seunghan’s activities, which understandably caused concern among fans. However, after thorough discussions from various viewpoints, we are now ready to announce our decision on the forthcoming activities of RIIZE.
We have concluded that the next chapter for RIIZE, which was carefully devised before their debut, would be more impactful with all seven members united. After in-depth conversations with the team and related personnel about our future, it has been decided that Seunghan will be rejoining the group. He will undergo a preparation period before gradually participating in scheduled events starting in November to reconnect with fans.
During his hiatus, Seunghan has tirelessly worked to enhance his abilities and is eager to showcase significant growth. We ask that everyone extends their understanding and support as he reintegrates into the group.
We once again express our heartfelt apologies to all fans who have been supportive of RIIZE’s journey, for any confusion and trouble that may have arisen from this situation. RIIZE is a collective that evolves together, striving to achieve their dreams, and all members have continuously prioritized team practices even during this time. We ask for your trust in the decision to continue showcasing RIIZE as a full seven-member group.
We understand many of you are eager to see what lies ahead for RIIZE, how they will continue to grow, what aspirations they are pursuing, and the means by which they will accomplish these goals. As those who are closest to RIIZE and their biggest supporters, we are also very excited to witness the next chapter unfold.
We will remain dedicated to working alongside the members, sharing their aspirations, to bring exceptional music and performances from RIIZE. We appreciate your ongoing support during all future growth and achievements.
Thank you.”
In the meantime, since his debut, Seunghan has faced scrutiny over his personal life, with controversies arising regarding incidents such as smoking publicly while underage and social media exchanges with TXT’s Soobin.
Later on, Seunghan communicated his hiatus through a handwritten note, stating, “I am fully aware that my past reckless actions have caused harm to many people. I am truly reflecting on this.”
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