RIIZE's Seunghan is departing the K-pop group just two days after his return was announced.
The 21-year-old star initially left the group in November 2023 due to the controversy surrounding leaked images of his alleged antics, such as kissing a woman in bed and smoking, and after a year-long hiatus, Wizard Production, the SM Entertainment arm that manages the group, shocked fans with the news on October 11 that he would be returning to the band.
However, following a backlash, a U-turn was made, and it was confirmed that Seunghan would leave the group for good.
In a lengthy apology, Wizard Production explained that they took on board feedback from their loyal fans – who go by the name BRIIZE – and ultimately decided it was in the rest of the band’s best interest that Seunghan should leave.
The statement read: “First, we sincerely apologise to all the BRIIZE [fandom name] fans for the distress and confusion caused by the announcement of Seunghan’s return on the 11th. We deeply regret that we prioritised the production’s stance over the growth that the six members of RIIZE have worked so hard to achieve, the invaluable support from Breeze that has been their greatest source of strength, and the precious time shared between RIIZE and Breeze fans.
"We initially made the decision with the hope that if Seunghan reflected on his past mistakes, returned to the group, and contributed to RIIZE‘s growth as a team once again, it could bring even greater happiness to both the artist and the fans. However, upon carefully reviewing each of the opinions and reactions sent by the fans after the announcement, we realized that our decision only led to further confusion and hurt for all of you.
"At the same time, Seunghan expressed his intention to leave the team for the sake of his fellow members and the fans. Respecting his decision, we inform you that Seunghan will not be rejoining RIIZE but will instead be departing from the group. We will support Seunghan as he continues to pursue his talents and dreams in the future.
"Above all, we deeply apologise for the difficulties and confusion caused to the six members of RIIZE, who have consistently given their best efforts for the fans since their debut, and who, more than anyone else, have constantly reflected and worked hard to bring RIIZE to where it is today.
"We will continue to support the members of RIIZE in every aspect, so they can grow even further. Wizard Production promises to act with greater caution in all matters moving forward, ensuring that the time RIIZE and BRIIZE share together remains long-lasting and full of happiness.”
Seunghan also penned a handwritten letter apologising for the “confusion” and wished his former bandmates - Shotaro, Eunseok, Sungchan, Wonbin, Sohee, and Anton - all the best for the future.
He wrote: “Hello, this is Seunghan.
"I know that a lot of people have been thinking seriously about my return, and I’ve been deeply aware of the seriousness of the situation. As I reflected on whether I was only thinking of myself and if I caused significant harm to the company and the members, whether it is befitting for me to be in a group that is deserving of so much love, the only emotions that I experienced were feeling worried and sorry.
"I believe the best decision for everyone is for me to leave the group.
"I no longer want the fans to experience confusion or pain, nor do I want any more harm to come to the members and the company because of me.
"I want to express my gratitude to the company and the members for making an effort to give me another chance, and I sincerely thank and apologise to those who supported me despite my shortcomings. I do not want the bond between RIIZE and BRIIZE, who have always supported and grown alongside each other, to be damaged. I also don’t want fans to argue because of me, when all they need is to continue loving RIIZE.
"From the bottom of my heart, I will continue to support the group I love and wish for RIIZE to receive even more love in the future.”
Apologising at the time of the leak, he said: “First of all, I sincerely want to apologise to the members and the fans. When the photos from before my debut were released, although they were photos of me, I was deeply disappointed and regretful about myself. If even I felt that way, I can’t even imagine how the members and fans by my side must have felt."
