Ju Haknyeon exits THE BOYZ amid controversial meeting with former Japanese pornstar
South Korean singer Ju Haknyeon is leaving THE BOYZ after his agency terminated his exclusive contracts due to issues involving his personal life.
In a statement from THE BOYZ’s agency ONE HUNDRED shared on June 18, the company said that it was no longer possible for them to "maintain the trust in [Haknyeon] as an artist" after they had "come to recognize the seriousness of this issue."
"As soon as we were informed of issues involving Ju Haknyeon’s private life, our company immediately suspended his activities and took time to thoroughly verify the facts," the agency said.
"After sufficient discussions with the members of THE BOYZ, we have made the final decision for Ju Haknyeon to depart the team and to terminate his exclusive contract," they added.
They requested the public's understanding as they explained that the decision was "an unavoidable measure to protect the members and the team."
"We would like to inform you that, as of today, Ju Haknyeon will cease all activities as a member of THE BOYZ. ONE HUNDRED will do our utmost to support the remaining members of THE BOYZ so that they can continue their activities in a stable and healthy environment," the agency assured.
"Once again, we sincerely apologize for causing concern to the fans, and we will do our best to repay your support with better news and activities in the future," they ended.
While the agency did not specify the issues that led to Haknyeon's termination, reports alleged that the singer had met up with former Japanese porn star Kirara Asuka in Roppongi, Tokyo in late May. According to News1 Korea, the pair reportedly got together at a bar in Tokyo along with several acquaintances.
The two were photographed getting cozy with each other and showing physical closeness, with Asuka resting her chin on Haknyeon's shoulder.
The former adult film star had retired from the industry in 2020 and has since started a new career as an influencer in Japan.
Following Haknyeon's departure, THE BOYZ is now a ten-member group comprised of Sangyeon, Jacob, Younghoon, Hyunjae, Juyeon, Kevin, New, Q, Sunwoo, and Eric. Hwall previously left the group in October 2019 after facing health issues.
Some of the group's popular tracks include MAVERICK, THRILL RIDE, REVEAL, No Air, Bloom Bloom, and The Stealer.
