On June 16, THE BOYZ’s agency, One Hundred, announced through their official social media that member Joo Hak-nyeon would temporarily suspend his activities. The agency stated, “We regret to inform you that Joo Hak-nyeon of THE BOYZ will temporarily halt activities due to personal reasons. We apologize for causing concern to THE B [THE BOYZ’s fandom] with this sudden news.”
Joo Hak-nyeon’s abrupt suspension sparked curiosity and speculation among fans regarding the reasons behind it.
However, two days later, on June 18, it was revealed that Joo Hak-nyeon had a private meeting with a former Japanese adult video (AV) actress, causing significant controversy. According to reports, on the night of May 29, Joo Hak-nyeon visited a bar in Roppongi, Tokyo, with acquaintances he knew in Japan.
At the gathering, which reportedly lasted until the early morning hours, Joo Hak-nyeon was seen hugging former AV actress Asuka Kirara, who was also observed resting her chin on his shoulder, among other actions.
As the controversy escalated, on June 18, One Hundred swiftly announced Joo Hak-nyeon’s departure from THE BOYZ and the termination of his contract.
In an official statement, the agency revealed that they had been informed of a private issue involving Joo Hak-nyeon and took immediate action by suspending his activities while thoroughly verifying the facts.
“We took the time to carefully assess the situation and concluded that the severity of the matter makes it difficult for him to maintain trust as an artist,” OneHundred stated.
Following discussions with the remaining members of THE BOYZ, the agency finalized the decision for Joo Hak-nyeon to withdraw from the team and terminate his contract.
“This decision was inevitable in order to protect the team and its members,” they added. “Joo Hak-nyeon will end all activities as a member of THE BOYZ as of today.”
OneHundred also expressed regret to fans for causing concern, emphasizing that they will continue to fully support the rest of THE BOYZ so they can carry on their activities safely and without disruption.
Full official statement from OneHundred Entertainment:
Hello, this is OneHundred.
We were recently informed that Joo Hak-nyeon had been involved in a personal issue. As soon as we received this information, we immediately suspended his activities and took time to thoroughly verify the facts.
As a result, we have come to understand the seriousness of the matter and clearly recognize that it is difficult to continue maintaining trust in him as an artist. After careful discussions with the members of THE BOYZ, we have officially decided to terminate Joo Hak-nyeon’s exclusive contract and confirm his withdrawal from the team.
We ask for your understanding that this decision was an unavoidable one made to protect the members of THE BOYZ and the team as a whole. We inform you that as of today, Joo Hak-nyeon will no longer carry out any activities as a member of THE BOYZ.
OneHundred will continue to fully support the remaining members of THE BOYZ so they can move forward steadily and healthily without disruption.
Once again, we sincerely apologize for causing concern to the fans, and we will do our utmost to bring you better news in the future.
Thank you.