Former THE BOYZ member Ju Haknyeon has taken a strong stand against his agency and media outlets, denying all allegations of illegal activities. He claims his contract termination and removal from the group were forced without his consent. Fans are now questioning the agency’s actions and showing support for Haknyeon.
On June 20, 2025, Haknyeon posted a lengthy statement on Instagram, rejecting claims that he engaged in prostitution. He also accused his agency, ONE HUNDRED, of pressuring him to pay ₩2 billion KRW (about $1.46 million USD) in penalties and falsely announcing his departure.
“The agency is making it seem like there is a reason for termination of the contract, even though there is no reason for termination, and some media outlets are defaming me by mentioning prostitution without any basis.”
Haknyeon admitted attending a private gathering with former Japanese AV actress Asuka Kirara but insisted no illegal activities took place. He said the agency used this incident to force him out of THE BOYZ, even though he never agreed to leave.
The controversy started when Japanese media outlet Shukan Bunshun reported Haknyeon met Kirara in Tokyo in May. Soon after, Korean media outlets claimed he paid for s*xual services, leading to his suspension and eventual removal from THE BOYZ.
ONE HUNDRED stated they lost trust in Haknyeon due to “private life issues” and terminated his contract after discussions with the group members. However, Haknyeon says the decision was made without his approval.
“The agency demanded compensation of over ₩200 million KRW (about $145,000 USD) and told me to leave the company, but I have never accepted it. Regardless, they announced to the press that the termination was confirmed.”
Fans and netizens are now questioning the agency’s handling of the situation. Many believe Haknyeon was unfairly treated if the only issue was attending a private gathering. Some also criticized the excessive penalty fee demanded by the agency.
“Huh, if he only went to the gathering, then things are totally different, regardless of if it’s still bad or not. What is up with his company?”
“₩2.00 billion KRW (about $1.45 million USD) in penalty fees is too much though.”
Haknyeon’s case has now entered a police investigation phase. A complaint was filed against him via e-People, and the Gangnam Police Station in Seoul is handling the matter. Despite the legal battle, Haknyeon remains determined to clear his name.
“I want to ask whether the agency’s attitude of trying to unilaterally remove me from the group and urge me to terminate my contract by demanding over ₩200 million KRW (about $145,000 USD) just because I was with a famous person in a private setting is the attitude of an agency that should be protecting the artist.”
THE BOYZ will continue as a 10-member group. Meanwhile, Haknyeon’s future remains uncertain as he prepares for legal action against his agency and media outlets.