Almost a year after leaving HYBE Labels, Leo is gearing up for his debut as a solo artist.
Leo previously trained under HYBE Labels, and he was one of the popular members of the debut team Trainee A.
Netizens also recognized him for appearing alongside two NewJeans members in the music video of BTS’ “Permission to Dance.”
However, Leo was embroiled in controversy in December 2021 for his scandalous lyrics.
The aspiring idol was criticized for his rap, which he personally wrote, with netizens being dismayed for his supposed misogynistic view and insensitive takes against women.
The production team in charge of Trainee A who uploaded Leo’s rap performance quickly took down the video and issued an apology.
Leo also apologized, saying that he’s “extremely embarrassed and ashamed” of his performance. He added that he’s “reflecting on [his] mistakes” and he’ll “strive to do whatever it takes to reflect and learn” from it.
Yet in August 2022, Leo announced that he’s leaving Trainee A. There, he revealed that his worries just kept getting bigger over the three and a half years that he spent training.
“I tried to hide from others but the worries kept growing with time, until I couldn’t even control them,” he explained.
Leo’s new start
Not much was heard from Leo after his departure from HYBE Labels until he surprised his fans with plans for a solo debut.
131 Label, the independent agency established by Kim Hanbin or B.I, announced that Leo has signed an exclusive contract with them.
ONE THREE ONE
NEW ARTISTHello, my name is LEO!
📌LEO’s Official Accounts
Youtube : https://t.co/Kz2d7gYXEK
Instagram : https://t.co/EDmPmXr40l
TikTok : https://t.co/YWEBiFPg0u #131label #LEO #리오 pic.twitter.com/PYtuptXa0E— 131online (@131online) July 24, 2023
Aside from making official social media accounts for their artist, 131 Label also unveiled the activities for Leo’s debut.
LEO DEBUT PLAN POSTER
📌LEO’s Official Accounts
Youtube : https://t.co/Kz2d7gZvui
Instagram : https://t.co/EDmPmXrBPT
TikTok : https://t.co/YWEBiFPNQ2 #131label #LEO #리오 pic.twitter.com/yAVHqfjVqE— 131online (@131online) August 1, 2023
Leo’s debut single will be released on August 17. Meanwhile, the music video will be out on August 29.
Details about the song title and his debut stage have yet to be disclosed.
Featured image: Former HYBE trainee Leo is now under 131 Label. Credit: Twitter/131 Label