This week in the world of K-pop has been filled with unexpected developments, from Seunghan’s departure from RIIZE to the legal troubles of formerNCT member Taeil. Let’s dive into the latest updates, including news involving BTS’ Jimin and controversy surrounding the upcoming drama Love in the Big City.
Seunghan Permanently Leaves RIIZE
In an unexpected move, Seunghan has officially parted ways with RIIZE, just a week after it was announced that he would return to group activities in November. His anticipated comeback followed a 10-month hiatus, which began after pre-debut controversies emerged. While fans were initially pleased with the prospect of his return, online criticism persisted.
Seunghan addressed his decision to leave in a farewell letter, stating that the harsh online environment and malicious comments had caused harm to both his group and agency, ultimately leading him to exit the group. Despite his explanation, his fanbase has remained vocal, protesting to bring him back.
BTS’ Jimin Scammed by Comedian Lee Jin Ho
BTS’ Jimin was recently revealed as one of the victims of comedian Lee Jin Ho, who admitted to being deeply in debt due to illegal online gambling. According to reports, in 2022, Jimin lent 100 million KRW (approximately $75,000 USD) to Lee Jin Ho, who claimed to be in urgent need of funds. He promised to return the money within a week but later requested a decade to repay it.
Despite the unfortunate incident, Jimin has avoided further legal trouble as the loan was given under a promissory note, meaning no tax penalties will be involved under South Korean law. Lee Jin Ho’s gambling addiction and subsequent debt have left multiple celebrities in similar situations.
SM Entertainment Terminates Taeil’s Contract
In the midst of an ongoing investigation into criminal allegations against Taeil, SM Entertainment has decided to officially terminate his contract. The former NCT member was accused of sexual misconduct, including quasi-rape charges, which led to his removal from NCT and its sub-unit NCT 127 in September.
On October 16, SM Entertainment issued a statement confirming his contract termination, citing the severity of the charges as the reason. The agency emphasized that maintaining trust in Taeil as an artist was no longer possible, and the decision was made in consultation with him.
“Taeil is currently under investigation for criminal charges, which falls under justifiable reason for the termination of the exclusive contract,” SM Entertainment stated.
BTS’ Jin Prepares for Solo Album ‘Happy’
In more positive news for ARMYs, BTS’ Jin has officially announced his first solo album titled Happy, set to release on November 15. The album will feature six tracks with a band-inspired sound, including a collaboration with Red Velvet’s Wendy. The pre-release tracks will begin rolling out on October 25.
The collaboration between Jin and Wendy has sparked excitement among fans, with many anticipating how their distinct vocal styles will complement each other.
Han So Hee and Jeon Jong Seo in Controversy Over ‘Hyeri Hate’
Actresses Han So Hee and Jeon Jong Seo found themselves in the middle of a controversy this week, with netizens accusing them of being involved in a social media campaign against Hyeri. It was discovered that Jeon Jong Seo followed a private Instagram account that had posted negative comments about Hyeri, who is the ex-girlfriend of actor Ryu Jun Yeol—the current partner of Han So Hee.
Speculation grew when similarities between the account’s profile and Han So Hee’s previous social media activity were noticed. However, Han So Hee’s agency quickly dismissed the rumors, stating that she does not maintain any private social media accounts aside from her official ones. The actress also announced her intention to pursue legal action against those spreading false claims.
Love in the Big City Faces Backlash
The upcoming BL dramaLove in the Big City, starring Nam Yoon Su and Jin Ho Eun, has sparked outrage from conservative groups ahead of its October 21 premiere. The show, which is based on a novel by Park Sang Young, has been accused of promoting and glorifying homosexuality.
Conservative groups have called for the drama’s cancellation, arguing that such content poses potential harm to their children. Despite the protests, the show’s creators remain firm in their decision to move forward with the release, with the writer backing the integrity of the story.
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