A trainee, whose debut was canceled due to ‘school violence’, now set to debut in a ‘Korean-Chinese survival’ show two years later
On the 28th of last month, iQIYI’s Starlight Boys announced the debut lineup, with Yoo Gwan-woo, Xiao Zi Heng, Sun Ying Hao, Han Kyul, Zhang Ji Jun, Penter, Lee Jun-hyuk, Tuan Xingxing, and Yang Dong-hwa securing spots in the final nine. Those ranked in the Top 9 are given increased exposure on the platform and a higher likelihood of debuting.
However, concerns have arisen among Korean fans, particularly about the inclusion of Yang Dong-hwa, ranked 9th. Born in 2003, Yang previously participated in the 2022 survival audition show The Origin – A, B, Or What? aired on KakaoTV and MBN, where he was selected as a final member of the group ATBO.
Shortly after, allegations of school bullying against Yang surfaced when photos from his school days allegedly showing him smoking and drinking with friends were leaked online. Further accusations from alleged victims began to circulate.
In response, IST Entertainment issued a detailed statement acknowledging that Yang had engaged in “immature and inappropriate behavior” during middle school that caused harm to some peers. Although the allegations were not entirely true, the agency confirmed certain misconduct on Yang’s part. The statement emphasized that Yang had personally apologized to some of those affected and expressed deep remorse.
Ultimately, IST decided that Yang would not debut with ATBO, stating, “We concluded, after thorough discussion, that he would not continue his activities as a member of ATBO.” The agency and Yang expressed intentions for him to reflect on his actions and grow as a responsible individual.
Two years later, Yang released a solo album and now finds himself nearing debut through Starlight Boys. The show primarily targets fans in China and other international audiences, with most fans responding with comments like, “Hasn’t he been forgiven?” or “Is there any proof?” However, Korean K-pop fans have expressed concerns.
