Heeseung is leaving Enhypen to embark on his solo career.
Belift Lab announced Tuesday on social media that the 24-year-old performer is “parting ways” with the K-pop group, which will “continue official activities henceforth as a group of six members”: Jay, Jake, Sunghoon, Sunoo, Jungwon and Ni-ki.
“Through in-depth discussions with each of the members about the future they envision and the direction of the team, it became clear that HEESEUNG has his own distinct musical vision and we have decided to respect it,” the band’s label wrote in its X post.
“It’s difficult to relay the whole process through a short notice, but this decision comes after extensive deliberation,” the statement continued. “We understand that this news is a lot to process and may be received with mixed reactions. Nevertheless, we hope you understand that this decision was made for the future of ENHYPEN and HEESEUNG.”
Befit Lab said Heeseung will remain with the label and is working on a solo album.
After the announcement, Heeseung, who has been a member of Enhypen since its formation through the 2020 Korean competition series “I-Land,” shared a message with the band’s fan community on Weverse.
“The past six years have been filled with moments that are difficult to put into words — moments that were overwhelmingly meaningful, and incredibly precious to me,” he wrote in the post. “Those memories will remain some of the most shining and unforgettable moments of my life. I will never forget them, and I want to continue supporting ENHYPEN as someone who will always cheer them on.”
In addition to thanking his former bandmates and their fans, referred to collectively as Engenes, he explained that his departure came because of his desire to create and share his personal art without putting his own ambitions ahead of the team’s. Heeseung added that he is “working hard” on his new project and hopes to be back to share “an even better version of myself” with fans as soon as possible.
“I will carry the love ENGENEs have given me in my heart as I move forward,” he added.
The remaining members of Enhypen expressed appreciation to their fans on social media and showed support for Heeseung.
“[W]e respect and support Heeseung’s choice and new start,” the band wrote on X, according to the translation provided on the site. “We at ENHYPEN will continue to grow even more in the future … we will become stronger and be grateful for every moment.”
This story originally appeared on LA Times
