Youngseo’s ILLIT Departure Reason Revealed? Set for Teddy’s Co-Ed Group Debut

On June 6, industry sources confirmed that former member of ILLIT, Youngseo, will be part of The Black Label’s upcoming mixed-gender idol group, marking her long-anticipated return after parting ways with Belift Lab, a HYBE subsidiary.

What Happened Between Youngseo & Belift Lab?

Youngseo rose to fame through her impressive second-place finish on the JTBC-Belift Lab survival program R U Next?, initially securing a spot in the debut lineup of ILLIT. However, in January 2024, Belift Lab announced her departure, citing a “mutual decision” after in-depth discussions about her future. The agency emphasized the amicable nature of the split and urged the public to avoid speculation.

Following her exit, ILLIT debuted in March 2024 with a revised five-member lineup: Yunah, Minju, Moka, Wonhee, and Iroha. The group has been gaining momentum and is currently preparing for their third mini-album “Bomb,” set to release on June 16.

Youngseo Prepares for Co-Ed Debut Under Teddy’s Direction

Rumors of Youngseo’s new direction had already begun swirling earlier this year after a post on online community theqoo showed her in public with a striking new look, igniting speculation about a solo or group comeback. Among the theories, many fans predicted her involvement with The Black Label, predictions that now prove accurate.

Youngseo’s upcoming re-debut under Teddy’s banner is especially noteworthy as she joins a co-ed group, a rare formation in the current K-pop landscape. The project has drawn massive buzz not only for its unusual format but also for being spearheaded by Teddy, the creative force behind hits from BIGBANG, BLACKPINK, Jeon Somi, and others.

Insider Claims and Fan Reactions Spark Further Interest

Intriguingly, one fan correctly predicted Youngseo’s involvement in a co-ed group two weeks before the official announcement, raising suspicions of possible insider knowledge. While specific details about the group remain confidential, insiders claim the information is credible—though persistent delays in the group’s debut continue to stir curiosity.

Alongside the growing anticipation, discussions have resurfaced about why Youngseo left her previous agency. One user commented, “As for the reason behind her departure, there’s a lot of misinformation going around. From what I heard, the company unilaterally notified them, citing a violation of company policy, but it seems somewhat unfair.”

Another commenter, who claims to know Youngseo personally, added: “Youngseo didn’t leave by choice—it was more like the company pushed her out. They supposedly used the difficulties she faced while trying to balance school and trainee life as an excuseㅋㅋㅋ. I’m not exactly sure where she is now, but what I do know is that she was with The Black Label, and I think it was for a co-ed team.”

They continued, “I actually went to the same middle school as Youngseo, and some of my mutual friends have shared bits and pieces of what happened. It’s not the full story—just fragments really—but still. To be honest, I wasn’t that close to her, so I didn’t hear it directly… but yeah. What’s certain is that it really wasn’t her decision to leave. I heard she was genuinely upset about it.”

With strong fan support and a second chance under Teddy’s guidance, Youngseo’s re-debut could mark a new beginning in her career—and potentially shake up the current idol landscape.