South Korean singer Seunghan departs from boy band RIIZE two days after comeback from hiatus

The 21-year-old cited backlash from fans, known as Briize, as a key reason for his departure, according to The Korea Herald.

SM Entertainment’s managing team, Wizard Production, apologized for the confusion caused by Seunghan’s return. "We are truly sorry for not prioritising the growth achieved by all six members of RIIZE and the invaluable support from Briize, which has been the greatest source of strength throughout this journey," the directors stated.

South Korean singer Seunghan, former member of K-pop boy band RIIZE. Photo courtesy of Seunghan's Instagram

RIIZE, SM Entertainment's first boy band in three years, initially debuted with seven members: Anton, Shotaro, Eunseok, Sungchan, Wonbin, Seunghan, and Sohee. Their debut single, "Get A Guitar," released in September 2023, sold over a million copies, as reported by The Straits Times.

Since November 2022, however, the group has been performing as a six-member unit after Seunghan temporarily left due to the leak of photos and videos showing him involved in underage smoking and intimate behavior with a girl during his trainee period, according to Korea JoongAng Daily.

Some fans were not supportive of Seunghan's return, sending funeral wreaths to SM Entertainment's Seoul headquarters with messages like "Hong Seung-han Out," "Remove Hong Seung-han," and "RIIZE Are Forever Six" in protest. They also launched a truck protest on Oct.13.

Directors Kim and Lee explained that although they hoped Seunghan's return would help the group grow and bring joy to both the members and fans, the decision instead caused confusion and distress. In response, Seunghan chose to leave the group for the benefit of the band and its supporters.

The directors expressed respect for Seunghan's decision and agreed to his departure, pledging to continue supporting him as he pursues his talents and dreams outside of the group.