RIIZE's management has confirmed that Seunghan, the 21-year-old K-pop idol, is officially leaving the group, just days after announcing his return following a nearly year-long hiatus. The unexpected news was revealed in a statement on the group’s official social media accounts, causing shock and confusion among fans.
Earlier this week, on October 11, Wizard Production, the SM Entertainment team responsible for RIIZE, shared that Seunghan would be making his long-anticipated comeback after stepping away from the group in November 2023. His hiatus followed leaked personal photos and videos that showed him engaging in private activities before the group’s debut, including smoking and kissing an unidentified woman. The return announcement had sparked optimism among the group’s supporters, with the company expressing hopes for Seunghan to resume group activities in November.
In their October 11 statement, Wizard Production stated, "We poured our heart and soul into planning RIIZE even before their debut, and we have determined that the next chapter of RIIZE would be more meaningful with all seven members together." They had consulted the staff and members, ultimately deciding that Seunghan’s return was the best path forward.
However, just two days later, on October 13, a new statement surfaced from the group’s official X (formerly Twitter) account, where Wizard Production apologized to BRIIZE, the group’s fanbase, for the confusion and distress caused by their previous announcement. “We initially believed Seunghan’s return, after reflecting on his past wrongdoings, would bring joy to both the artist and fans. However, after carefully considering the responses and feedback from fans, we realized our decision had caused more harm than good.”
The company further explained that Seunghan himself had expressed a desire to leave the group, prioritizing the well-being of both the members and the fans. "Out of respect for his wishes, we have decided to announce Seunghan’s departure from RIIZE, rather than his return," the statement added.
In a heartfelt handwritten letter shared on Weverse, Seunghan addressed his departure, acknowledging his internal struggle. "I’ve reflected deeply, questioning whether I’ve been too self-centered and if I’m causing too much harm to the members and the company. I’ve realized that leaving the group is the right choice for everyone," Seunghan wrote. He expressed his desire to avoid further hurt and confusion for fans, adding, "It also breaks my heart to see the fans, who should simply be enjoying their love for RIIZE, fighting because of me."
Despite his departure, a petition titled “We Want Seunghan Back! RIIZE Is 7!!!” was launched on October 13, gaining over 85,000 signatures at the time of writing. The petition was initiated by a fan named Lauren Lim, reflecting the overwhelming support for Seunghan’s return from a large part of the fandom.
Meanwhile, on October 14, funeral wreaths that had been sent in protest of Seunghan's situation were seen being cleared away in front of the SM Entertainment building, symbolizing the end of a chapter for both the idol and his fans.
Seunghan's departure has left RIIZE and their fans at a crossroads, as the group prepares to continue its journey with the remaining six members.