On October 13, SM Entertainment announced the unexpected withdrawal of Seunghan from the K-pop boy group RIIZE, leaving fans divided in their reactions. While some domestic fans expressed relief over his departure, international fans were largely outraged, accusing the company of failing to protect the young idol.

Seunghan’s Controversial Departure

Seunghan’s exit follows a period of controversy that had him on hiatus, during which many domestic fans protested his return to the group. These protests included public displays such as sending flower wreaths to SM Entertainment, reportedly prompting Seunghan to visit the company in person. Despite his initial planned return, the protests escalated, resulting in his withdrawal from RIIZE. This move pleased many Korean fans, who felt the group would be better off without Seunghan, referring to him as a “problematic member.”

However, international fans were devastated by the decision. Many had supported Seunghan throughout his hiatus, vocally advocating for his return to RIIZE. They viewed SM Entertainment’s actions as bowing to pressure from local fans, and the sudden turn of events has caused a significant backlash from overseas supporters.

Korean Fans’ Reactions

Many Korean fans took to social media to celebrate Seunghan’s withdrawal, praising the impact of their protests. Comments congratulating fellow fans for their persistence flooded online forums, with users expressing satisfaction over the result.

Here are some examples of reactions from Korean fans:

• Wow, we did it ㅠㅠㅠㅠ
• BRIIZE, congratulations! You worked so hard.
• Congrats congrats!
• BRIIZE, congratulations!!
• Wow, really, congratulations!! I can’t believe it, seriously. (Since there’s a problematic member, I was hoping this would happen.)
• Fans, huge congratulations!!!! This is amazing, seriously!!!!
• Wow, congrats to the fans. You must have gone through so much stressㅠㅠ
• Wow, the comments are funny haha
• Congrats congrats!
• Is this some huge noise marketing before the comeback?
• I can’t believe it, I’m so jealous. Huge congratulations! I wish our team’s problematic member would leave too.
• The fans won, congrats congrats!
• Congrats congrats!
• Everyone worked so hardㅠㅠ Congrats!
• Ah ㅋㅋㅋㅠㅠ These past three days have been mentally exhausting, but reading these warm comments makes me tear up. Thank you guys!
• Wow, BRIIZE haha, this turned out so well. I’m not even a fan, but I think BRIIZE is really cool. That statement was basically an apology.
• Oh my god, huge congrats.
• Wow, haha!
• The person who ruined the fandom’s atmosphere, please leave already.
• Haha, this company always flip-flops on things. As expected from SM.
• It’s done.
• Amazing ㅋㅋㅋㅋ Congrats congrats!!!!
• Wow, this really happened ㅋㅋㅋㅋ You all worked so hard.

The reference to “BRIIZE” here likely reflects the nickname for RIIZE’s fanbase.

International Fans Show Their Outrage

In stark contrast, international fans have been vocal in their disapproval. Many feel that SM Entertainment should have better protected Seunghan and are frustrated that the company gave in to pressure from domestic fans. These fans argue that the controversies surrounding Seunghan, which included alleged invasions of his privacy, were blown out of proportion and did not warrant his removal from the group.

International fans took to social media to express their frustration:

“SM Entertainment failed to protect Seunghan and the rest of the group. This is just sad.”
“Why bend to the will of a few angry fans? Seunghan deserved better.”
“I can’t believe they caved in like this. What kind of message does this send?”

Impact on RIIZE and Wonbin’s Letter

Seunghan’s departure has left many fans wondering about the future of RIIZE. The group, which debuted not long ago, has quickly built a strong following, and his withdrawal raises concerns about the group’s dynamics moving forward. Fans have also pointed to the emotional letter penned by fellow member Wonbin, speculating on the impact Seunghan’s exit may have on the remaining members.

Some international fans reflected on Wonbin’s message, which emphasized unity and perseverance. They now fear that the situation may create a rift within RIIZE, as the members grapple with the sudden change.

Seunghan’s Letter to Fans

After the official announcement, Seunghan addressed his departure in a heartfelt letter to fans. He expressed his gratitude for the support he had received and apologized for the situation leading to his withdrawal. While the details of the letter remain under wraps, fans who have read it describe it as a bittersweet farewell.

With this shocking turn of events, the future of RIIZE remains uncertain, and fans from both sides of the controversy will be watching closely to see how the group moves forward.

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