Former RIIZE member Seunghan has become the focus of widespread international fan support after his departure from the group. On October 15, 2024, Mexican and Latin American fanbases made their voices heard by sending support trucks to the headquarters of SM Entertainment. These trucks displayed messages of solidarity with Seunghan and urged the company to reconsider his exit from RIIZE. The messages included phrases such as, “Mexico supports seven RIIZE or nothing,” and, “Latam is always with RIIZE.”
Fans have also criticized the actions of Korean fans, who previously protested Seunghan’s return to the group following his hiatus. A pointed message on one of the trucks read, “International fans spend money too,” highlighting their frustration over the perceived influence of local fan sentiment in Seunghan’s withdrawal.
Seunghan’s Controversial Departure
Seunghan’s journey with RIIZE took a tumultuous turn in August 2023, when pre-debut photos and videos of him surfaced online, sparking controversy. One of the most talked-about images showed Seunghan with a teenage girlfriend in a motel. While the relationship was legal, it caused a significant backlash among fans. Adding to the controversy, a video showing Seunghan smoking at that time further divided public opinion.
Following the uproar, SM Entertainment placed Seunghan on hiatus. While some fans understood the situation, others, particularly in South Korea, were less forgiving. The backlash mounted as time passed, leading to his eventual departure from the group.
Seunghan’s Handwritten Letter
After returning from his hiatus and participating in group activities again, Seunghan made the unexpected decision to step down from RIIZE. In his handwritten letter, Seunghan expressed regret and reflected on how his actions might have negatively impacted the group. He explained that he chose to leave the group permanently in order to avoid causing further harm to his fellow members and their fans, BRIIZE. His message resonated with international fans, who have since shown their overwhelming support for him.
RIIZE: A Promising Group with Six Remaining Members
RIIZE, a seven-member group formed under SM Entertainment, made their official debut in 2023 with the single album Get a Guitar. The album included the title track and a B-side called Memories. Later in the same year, they followed up with another single, Talk Sexy, showcasing their musical versatility.
The group, now consisting of Shotaro, Eunseok, Sungchan, Wonbin, Sohee, and Anton, is still navigating their path forward as a six-member team. Fans continue to rally behind both Seunghan and the remaining members of RIIZE, showing their unwavering support in the midst of this challenging situation.
RIIZE Members Information
Member Name | Position | Debut Year | Role in the Group |
---|---|---|---|
Shotaro | Main Dancer | 2023 | Dance, Performance |
Eunseok | Leader | 2023 | Leadership, Vocals |
Sungchan | Rapper | 2023 | Rap, Charisma |
Wonbin | Vocalist | 2023 | Vocals, Visual |
Sohee | Lead Dancer | 2023 | Dance, Vocals |
Anton | Producer | 2023 | Music Production |
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