Fans are strongly protesting against the sudden departure of singer HEESEUNG from the group ENHYPEN. International fans have already gathered more than 513,000 signatures on a petition calling for his return only one day after the announcement of his departure.
“Following BELIFT LAB’s announcement regarding HEESEUNG’s departure from the group, thousands of fans are expressing deep concern and are asking for transparency,” a fan wrote in a letter addressed to the media Korea JoongAng Daily this Wednesday.
“ENHYPEN has been active as a seven-member group since its debut, and HEESEUNG played a crucial role in the group’s music, performance and identity. This news is a huge shock for many fans.” indicates another letter.
ENHYPEN’s agency, BELIFT LAB, announced HEESEUNG’s departure in a statement yesterday.
“The company discussed the group’s future and goals with ENHYPEN. During the process, it was determined that HEESEUNG has a clear musical direction he wishes to pursue, and we decided to respect his decision.” said BELIFT LAB.
While the agency stated that HEESEUNG’s departure was “a decision made after long and mature consideration,” some fans raised doubts as to whether the decision was voluntary on HEESEUNG’s part.
“Many fans around the world are confused and worried about the situation, and hope for a clearer explanation and more transparent communication,” indicates a letter from a fan.
“Although we fully support HEESEUNG’s growth as an artist, we believe that his decision to leave the group and pursue a solo career deserves to be reconsidered. Many artists in the K-pop industry successfully pursue both group and solo careers, and we hope that HEESEUNG will be offered the same opportunity.” indicates another letter.
Fans of ENHYPEN, known as ENGENE, launched a petition on Change.org calling for HEESEUNG to pursue solo activities without leaving the group.
ENHYPEN was formed in 2020 through MNET’s musical survival television show “I-LAND.” The group debuted the same year with the EP album “BORDER: DAY ONE” and has since released songs including “Given-taken” (2020), “Drunk-dazed” (2021) and “Tamed-dashed” (2021).
Journalist: Shawn
Translator: Shawn
Source: SNS ENHYPEN, Online community
