K-pop group ENHYPEN is set to embark on their first official schedule as a six-member group following the departure of Hee-seung.
On March 13, ENHYPEN departed for Melbourne, Australia via Incheon International Airport. The group is scheduled to attend the ‘HELLO, MELBOURNE!’ music festival held at Flemington Racecourse in Australia on the 14th.
This marks the group’s first activity since Hee-seung’s exit, drawing significant attention. The group will perform as a six-member ensemble consisting of Jungwon, Jay, Jake, Sunghoon, Sunoo, and Niki.
Earlier, on March 10, their agency BELIFT LAB announced Hee-seung’s departure from the group to pursue a solo career. The agency stated, “ENHYPEN has been contemplating and discussing the direction and goals for their future. After in-depth conversations about each member’s aspirations and the team’s direction, it was confirmed that Hee-seung’s musical inclinations were distinct, and the decision was made to respect this.”
Last year, the group achieved their first triple million-seller with their 2nd full album ‘ROMANCE : UNTOLD’, and they won the grand prize at major award ceremonies, raising expectations for their future activities. Amidst this, the notification of Hee-seung’s departure, delivered with no prior indication through an announcement and a handwritten letter, has led to a sense of disappointment among fans.
Hee-seung shared his feelings in a handwritten letter. He stated, “I have been sharing the results of my work with the company and discussing with many people for a long time about how best to show this to you. After a long period of contemplation, I have made a big decision to approach ENGENE (fandom name) with a better version of myself, following the direction suggested by the company.”
He continued, “I am well aware of your worries and various stories. I will work hard to meet you again as soon as possible. My heart is sincere in wanting to show you a better version of myself. I will remember the great love ENGENE has given me so far and run forward.”
However, the sudden news of his departure has also led to aftershocks. A truck protest by some fans demanding the reversal of Hee-seung’s departure took place in front of the HYBE building. Some fans also directed their anger elsewhere, leaving malicious comments on the SNS of people around ENHYPEN.
In response, the six ENHYPEN members took to official SNS to soothe the fans’ hearts. They said, “We think you must have been very surprised by today’s announcement. We were most worried about how ENGENE would feel,” adding, “We respect and support Hee-seung’s choice and new beginning. We will become a more solid and proud ENHYPEN for our precious ENGENEs who always support and encourage us, and we will never forget our gratitude.”
Even after Hee-seung’s independence, the members emphasized their trust in each other and their affection for the fans, revealing their teamwork. They are continuing to communicate with fans amidst the sudden change, raising expectations for their future activities.
Meanwhile, ENHYPEN debuted in 2020 through the Mnet audition program ‘I-LAND’. They have released hit songs such as ‘Bite Me’, ‘Polaroid Love’, and ‘XO’, building a global fandom.
