In a surprising twist, Seunghan, a key member of the popular K-pop group RIIZE, has decided to leave the group permanently. This unexpected announcement came just two days after it was revealed that he would rejoin the group after a nearly year-long hiatus. The news has left fans in a whirlwind of emotions, especially considering how it all unfolded quickly.
Seunghan’s Controversial Past and Hiatus
Seunghan’s journey with RIIZE has been anything but smooth. The 21-year-old singer faced significant controversy just before the group’s official debut when pre-debut photos and videos surfaced online. These images, which showed him smoking and in close company with a woman, caused an uproar among certain fans. Many felt that his actions were inappropriate for a K-pop idol. This role has high expectations of maintaining a clean and polished public image, especially in conservative South Korea.
As a result of the backlash, SM Entertainment, the company managing RIIZE, decided to put Seunghan on an indefinite hiatus. During this time, he was expected to reflect on his actions while the rest of the group continued to perform and release music. This decision was difficult for Seunghan and his fellow band members and fans, known as BRIIZE.
Despite the controversy, some fans remained supportive of Seunghan. However, others felt that his return might overshadow the group’s achievements during his absence, leading to further division within the fanbase.
The Announcement of His Return
On October 11, 2024, SM Entertainment’s production team officially stated that Seunghan would return to RIIZE. The company expressed that after much internal deliberation, they believed that having all seven members back together would be the best path forward for the group. Seunghan, who had been on hiatus for nearly a year, would gradually rejoin group activities starting in November.
In a heartfelt handwritten letter shared on RIIZE’s Weverse account, Seunghan expressed deep regret for his past actions and thanked his fellow members and fans for their support. He acknowledged the difficulty of his situation but seemed hopeful about returning to the stage with his bandmates.
The Sudden Change: Seunghan’s Departure from RIIZE
Just two days after the announcement of his return, the situation took a sudden turn. On October 13, 2024, SM Entertainment’s division managing RIIZE, Wizard Production, announced that Seunghan would permanently leave the group. The company revealed that Seunghan had desired to depart from the group to protect his fellow members and fans from further confusion and distress.
In his letter, Seunghan shared his thoughts on the matter. He expressed remorse for the confusion and pain caused by his actions and their impact on RIIZE and their fans. He mentioned that, after much reflection, he believed that stepping away from the group was the best decision for everyone involved.
Seunghan’s letter was heartfelt and filled with gratitude toward his bandmates, fans, and the company. He emphasized that he did not want to be the cause of any more harm or division within the fanbase and wished nothing but the best for RIIZE’s future. He concluded by expressing his unwavering support for the group he loves, even though he will no longer be a part of it.
Fan Reactions and the Aftermath
The news of Seunghan’s departure left the RIIZE fandom in shock. Social media platforms were flooded with reactions, with many fans expressing confusion, frustration, and sadness. Some fans appreciated Seunghan’s decision to prioritize the group’s well-being, while others criticized how SM Entertainment handled the situation.
The initial announcement of Seunghan’s return had already caused division within the fanbase. Some fans, known as ‘OT6’ supporters, believed that the group was better off without Seunghan and even sent ‘funeral wreaths’ to the company, a symbolic protest urging SM Entertainment to remove him. Others, however, felt that Seunghan deserved a second chance and were excited about his return.
This internal conflict among fans reflects a broader issue within the K-pop industry. Idols are often held to incredibly high standards; even the smallest missteps can lead to massive public backlash. The pressure to maintain a perfect image can be overwhelming, especially for young artists like Seunghan.
The Role of SM Entertainment and Wizard Production
SM Entertainment and its division, Wizard Production, played a significant role. In their official statement, the company acknowledged the confusion and distress caused by their initial decision to bring Seunghan back. They admitted that they had prioritized the production’s stance over the concerns of fans and the group’s overall well-being.
The company explained that they hoped Seunghan’s return would be a positive step forward for the group and its fans. However, after carefully reviewing the reactions from fans, they realized that their decision had only led to more confusion and hurt. As a result, they respected Seunghan’s desire to leave the group and promised to support him in his future endeavours.
SM Entertainment also expressed deep regret for the difficulties caused to the remaining six members of RIIZE. The company assured fans that they would continue to support the group and work towards their growth and success. They also promised to be more cautious in their decisions to ensure that the relationship between RIIZE and BRIIZE remains strong and positive.
What’s Next for Seunghan and RIIZE?
As Seunghan leaves the group, the artist’s and RIIZE’s future remains uncertain. While SM Entertainment has expressed its support for Seunghan’s future pursuits, it is unclear what his next steps will be. Whether he will continue to pursue a career in the entertainment industry or take a different path remains to be seen.
As for RIIZE, the group will now continue as a six-member act. The remaining members—Shotaro, Eunseok, Sungchan, Wonbin, Sohee, and Anton—will undoubtedly face challenges as they move forward without Seunghan. However, SM Entertainment has promised to support the group in every aspect to ensure their continued success.
Fans of RIIZE, known as BRIIZE, will likely need time to process the recent events. The departure of a member is always a significant moment for any K-pop group, and the emotions surrounding Seunghan’s exit are particularly complex given the circumstances. However, with the support of their company and dedicated fanbase, RIIZE has the potential to continue rising in the K-pop industry.
Seunghan’s departure from RIIZE marks a significant moment in the group’s journey. His decision to leave, just days after his return was announced, highlights K-pop idols’ immense pressure and the delicate balance between personal growth and public expectations. While Seunghan’s exit may disappoint some, it also opens a new chapter for him and RIIZE. As the group moves forward, fans will undoubtedly continue to support them, hoping for a brighter future for all involved.
Tech enthusiast and digital expert, Techo Wise is the driving force behind techowise.com. With years of experience in viral trends and cutting-edge software tools, Techo Wise delivers insightful content that keeps readers updated on the latest in technology, software solutions, and trending digital innovations.
