Former THE BOYZ member Ju Haknyeon has spoken out against the accusations that led to his sudden departure from the group. In a detailed Instagram post on June 22, 2025, he denied claims of soliciting prostitution and accused his agency of manipulating the situation to force his exit.
The scandal began when reports surfaced linking Haknyeon to former Japanese adult actress Asuka Kirara. Initial rumors suggested a private meeting, but later, a media outlet accused him of paying for s*xual services. The allegations spread rapidly, leading to his agency, IST Entertainment, announcing his departure on June 18, 2025.
Haknyeon claims he was given no chance to defend himself before the agency publicly cut ties with him. He also revealed that a police report was filed against him based on unverified claims, further damaging his reputation.
Ju Haknyeonโs Full Statement on the Scandal
In his post, Haknyeon explained the timeline of events:
Before the Scandal: He became aware that someone had taken compromising photos of him with Asuka Kirara. He immediately informed his agency and asked for advice.
Denial of Prostitution Claims: He admitted to meeting Kirara but strongly denied paying for s*xual services. He expressed regret for any harm caused to THE BOYZโs image.
Sudden Termination: On June 17, his agency sent him a contract termination agreement demanding 2 billion KRW (approx. $1.5 million) in penalties. When he refused to sign, they announced his departure the next day.
Media Backlash: Shortly after the agencyโs statement, news outlets published articles linking him to Kirara and accusing him of illegal activities. A police report was filed against him the following day.
“The speed of these events felt too planned. It was as if someone was creating a reason to remove me from the group.”
Legal Action and Contract Disputes
Haknyeon revealed that his agency used a vague clause in his contractโ“acts that damage reputation”โto justify his termination. However, he argued that the contract only specifies punishable offenses like DUI, dr*g use, gambling, assault, and prostitution, none of which apply to him.
He also accused IST Entertainment of violating proper termination procedures. Instead of discussing the issue privately, they publicly announced his exit before any official investigation.
To clear his name, Haknyeon is taking legal action:
Filing a criminal complaint against the journalist who first accused him.
Preparing a civil lawsuit against the media outlet for defamation.
Suing the person who filed the false police report.
Fan Reactions and Industry Response
Fans of THE BOYZ, known as THE B, have expressed mixed reactions. Some support Haknyeon, while others are waiting for more evidence.
“If the agency really forced him out without proof, thatโs unfair.” โ Fan comment on X (formerly Twitter).
“We need to hear both sides before jumping to conclusions.” โ Another fan reaction.
Industry insiders suggest that Haknyeonโs case highlights the lack of transparency in K-pop contracts. Many idols face strict clauses that allow agencies to terminate them without clear evidence of wrongdoing.
With his reputation at stake, Haknyeon is determined to fight the accusations legally. If he wins the case, he may pursue a solo career or return to the entertainment industry in another capacity.
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