RIIZE's Seunghan to permanently leave the group

By Kristine Kang

Published October 14, 2024 3:31 PM PHT

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Fans of RIIZE are experiencing mixed emotions after the announcement that member Seunghan will permanently leave the K-pop group.

On October 13, SM Entertainment's Wizard Production shocked netizens by announcing Seunghan's departure just two days after confirming his return from hiatus.

In their statement, reported by Soompi, the agency expressed regret for the confusion caused by the earlier announcement.

"First, we sincerely apologize for hurting BRIIZE [RIIZE's fandom] and causing confusion through our announcement of Seunghan's return on October 11. We feel particularly apologetic for prioritizing Wizard Production's position, instead of making our top priorities the growth achieved by the six RIIZE members while working their hardest; the support of BRIIZE, who have been RIIZE's greatest source of strength during that journey; and the preciousness of the times that RIIZE and BRIIZE have spent together."

Wizard Production acknowledged their misjudgment regarding Seunghan's return, admitting that their decision worsened the situation. They explained, "We made this decision after debating it for a long time because we thought that if Seunghan returned after reflecting on his past wrongdoings and RIIZE showed another level of growth as a group, we would be able to give the artist and the fans greater joy. However, the announcement of his return, we ruminated carefully on each and every one of the opinions and responses sent in by fans, and we realized that our decision had actually hurt fans more and caused them greater confusion instead."

The agency noted that Seunghan personally expressed his desire to leave the group for the sake of his fellow members and the fans. "At the same time, Seunghan has consistently expressed his desire to leave the group for the sake of the members and the fans. Out of respect for the artist's decision, we are announcing Seunghan's departure from RIIZE, instead of his joining the group," they stated.

In conclusion, the directors promised to continue supporting both RIIZE and Seunghan's future projects, reiterating their apologies for the confusion and hardships caused.