The ongoing controversy surrounding former THE BOYZ member Joo Hak-nyeon escalated on June 20, as the idol issued a strong public statement denying both the allegations of prostitution and the agency’s claims of contract termination. In a lengthy post on his personal social media, Joo Hak-nyeon asserted that he has “not committed any illegal acts” and accused his agency, One Hundred, of fabricating grounds for expelling him from the group.
Joo Hak-nyeon: “I Did Not Agree to Leave THE BOYZ”
Joo Hak-nyeon began his statement by criticizing the media, writing, “Despite my clear statement that I have not engaged in any illegal activities, certain reporters and media outlets continue to publish malicious articles. I will take all civil and criminal legal actions against them.”
He firmly denied involvement in prostitution, adding, “If there is evidence that I engaged in prostitution, please make it public immediately. I have not withdrawn from the team, nor have I agreed to the termination of my exclusive contract.”
The idol also revealed that the agency had demanded over 2 billion KRW in compensation and pressured him to leave, though he claims he never accepted this. He alleged that the company ignored proper contractual procedures and unilaterally issued a termination notice without justification. “Is it really the agency’s role to unilaterally expel me just for being at a private gathering with a known individual?” Joo Hak-nyeon questioned, referencing a May meeting at a Tokyo bar with former Japanese AV actress Asuka Kirara that sparked public speculation.
He concluded by stating that he would hold both the agency and the media accountable for defamation and false claims.
Agency One Hundred Fires Back, Threatens Legal Action
Later that same day, One Hundred broke their silence and issued a firm rebuttal. In an official statement, the agency claimed Joo Hak-nyeon was distorting the facts and evading responsibility. They cited Article 6, Clause 3 of the exclusive contract, which permits termination in cases where an artist’s actions “damage the dignity of a pop culture artist to the extent of hindering entertainment activities.”
“This is not a unilateral action,” One Hundred stated. “We have terminated the exclusive contract in accordance with the agreed terms, and this was a just and necessary decision.”
The agency expressed regret over Joo Hak-nyeon’s “unilateral false claims” and warned of legal action if such statements continued. They also revealed plans to submit evidence and related materials to judicial authorities to support their position. “The core issue is not the rumors but Joo Hak-nyeon’s refusal to take responsibility,” the agency added.
The controversy began on June 18, when One Hundred officially announced Joo Hak-nyeon’s withdrawal from THE BOYZ and termination of his contract. The decision followed reports that Joo Hak-nyeon had met privately with Asuka Kirara at a bar in Japan. Joo Hak-nyeon responded on June 20 by posting a handwritten apology, admitting he had attended a drinking event with acquaintances but denied any involvement in prostitution or other illegal activities.
Despite his statements, the agency stood by its decision and reiterated that the group’s future activities—excluding Joo Hak-nyeon—will continue as planned. They also vowed to protect the honor and rights of the remaining members.