Popular K-Pop idol Hwarang, from the 4th generation boy group TEMPEST, is stepping back from group activities amidst a swirling social media controversy. The decision comes just days before the release of TEMPEST’s highly anticipated fifth mini-album, “TEMPEST Voyage.”
The controversy started after Hwarang was spotted at a club by a fan. He was seen alongside other known 4th generation stars including Junhyuk of MIRAE, Hyunseung of YOUNITE, Bomin of Golden Child, and Hyunsoo of TNX. The fan decided to reveal the news to Hwarang during a video call fan siging event, which led to an uncomfortable confrotration with the star.
While Hwarang, born in 2001, is an adult and his visit to the club wasn’t inherently wrong, the situation became complicated due to the fan interaction and the involvement of other unnamed idols reportedly present at the same time. Hwarang attempted to downplay the situation, emphasizing his love for music and denying any wrongdoing. However, his response and the surrounding rumors fueled fan disappointment and concerns about the idol’s integrity.
Fan: TBH, during the rest time, I saw oppa at the club.
Hwarang: Oh really?
Fan: Yeah.
Hwarang: Did we meet there? Were you the one I met? Well, since I didn’t do anything bad… I like music.
Fan: Seems like you like exciting music.
Hwarang: I definitely never hung out with girls. I don’t have any intention of turning fans into fools.
화랑아 화랑아 템페스트 화랑아~
— 😆 (@5O7BlABWxF22599) February 19, 2024
클럽에 노래 들으러 간다던 템페스트 화랑아~#템페스트 #화랑 @TPST__official pic.twitter.com/1nkzddCQth
Following “deep discussions” about Hwarang’s future with TEMPEST, Yuehua Entertainment, the group’s agency, announced his temporary suspension from activities. Citing the difficulty in restoring public trust and maintaining group cohesion, the agency confirmed Hwarang will not be participating in promotions for “TEMPEST Voyage.”
Following the recent issues related to Hwarang’s personal life that came to light via social media, we have engaged in deep discussions about his future activities. Through this process, Hwarang was unable to regain trust, and we have judged that it is difficult to continue full team activities under these circumstances.
— Yuehua Entertainment
After much deliberation, we have decided to temporarily suspend Hwarang’s activities. Therefore, Tempest’s fifth mini album ‘TEMPEST Voyage’ will proceed with the remaining six members excluding Hwarang.
We ask for your understanding in advance for any pre-recorded or produced content that may feature Hwarang and apologize again for causing concern to the fans with this sudden news.
We urge everyone to refrain from baseless speculation and indiscriminate criticism, and ask for your warm support and encouragement for the members of Tempest who are preparing for the activities of ‘TEMPEST Voyage’.
The agency clarified that while Hwarang may still appear in limited pre-filming and production cases, he will step down from his MC role on MBC M’s Show Champion, effective February 21 KST.
While Hwarang’s visit to the club ignited the controversy, it’s important to note that unverified rumors and the involvement of other unnamed individuals significantly contributed to its escalation. The incident highlights the intense scrutiny K-Pop idols face within their personal lives and the potential impact of fan interactions on their careers. As TEMPEST gears up for their comeback minus Hwarang, fans await further developments and hope for a swift resolution to the controversy.
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