The K-pop scene is buzzing with excitement as former Trainee A member Lee Leo was revealed to be 131 Label’s newest artist. This revelation confirms previous speculation and marks a new chapter in Leo’s musical journey, a journey that has not been without its share of controversy.
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
Lee Leo was in Trainee A, a pre-debut group formed in April 2021 by Big Hit Music. Even before joining the group, Leo had begun to make his presence felt in the industry. Notably, he appeared in BTS‘s music video for “Permission to Dance” alongside two girls who later debuted in the girl group NewJeans. This appearance further increased his visibility and fan base.
Trainee A was set to debut, but circumstances took a different turn when Leo faced backlash for a misogynistic song he wrote a while back. The offensive and inappropriate lyrics led to a wave of criticism. Leo and his producers apologized, acknowledging their error in judgment. Ultimately, the backlash was too intense for the boy, and he left the team instead. Following his exit, BigHit Music canceled Trainee A’s debut, leaving fans and the trainees uncertain.
The confirmation of Leo‘s signing with 131 Label sparked fans’ joy. 131 Label revealed the news in a tweet, setting the stage for Leo‘s upcoming debut. However, whether he’ll debut as a soloist or in a group remains to be seen.
Meanwhile, 131 Label, Leo’s new home, underwent significant changes. B.I., who founded it, stepped down from his management position to focus on his music. A new team of industry professionals took over, aiming to fully support B.I. and other artists like Leo in their creative endeavors.
A heartfelt message for Lee Leo
Sangwon’s message to LEO 😭
There’s so many memories between us, we laugh and cry together, we get happy and sad together.. for today hyung is the coolest in the world ✨ Finally hyung is revealed to the world, i feel like crying and thankful. You’ve worked so so hard + pic.twitter.com/yC4gkRYWfU
— sangwon pics (@sangwonspics) July 24, 2023
Following the announcement of Leo‘s signing, Sangwon, one of his former groupmates in Trainee A, posted a heartfelt message on Instagram. The message was translated from Korean to English by a fan and shared on Twitter. Sangwon expressed his admiration for Leo, reminiscing on their shared memories and expressing his belief in Leo‘s future success. Sangwon assured Leo of his continued support and congratulated him on his new journey.
LEO replied to Sangwon 😭😭
“(Crying)😭😭😭 my friend and also my family that i adore.. thank you so so much, I’m very sorry, and I love you!!!!! 😭❤️💜 I’m still lacking a lot in all aspect but you always tried to understand me, when there’s no one who accepts me.. you’re like… https://t.co/GeKKfizccQ pic.twitter.com/C1mSFeeXN5
— leo pics (@leopiics) July 24, 2023
Responding to Sangwon‘s post, Leo expressed his gratitude. He acknowledged his shortcomings and thanked Sangwon for always understanding him. Leo apologized for debuting first and promised to work hard so Sangwon could follow him. He ended his message by expressing love for his friend.
Leo also opened his own SNS accounts, including Instagram, where he left a message for his fans. He expressed excitement about starting fresh as a soloist with 131 Label and shared his new artist profile photos. — K-Pop News Writer
Featured Image: Leo stans went wild when 131 Label posted his new artist profile photos. Source: Twitter/131 Label’s official Twitter account.