Tag: IST Entertainment

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Seok Rakwon Departs ATBO For Health Issues

Seok Rakwon has officially departed from ATBO. His agency also announced the young idol’s decision to leave the group, confirming the sad reason for his departure.

IST Entertainment Announces Seok Rakwon Departure from ATBO

On May 6, IST Entertainment issued a statement confirming Seok’s departure from the boy group. According to the agency, the young idol has also chosen to prioritize his health after dealing with anxiety symptoms.

“In March of this year, Seok Rakwon went on hiatus due to anxiety symptoms and focused on recovering his health,” the statement read. “During his hiatus, we held in-depth discussions with Seok Rakwon about his future activities with the group and within the entertainment industry, but after careful discussion, the decision was made for him to focus more on his recovery with the artist’s health being the top priority.”

“Hence, Seok Rakwon concludes his activities as ATBO, and ATBO will continue activities with six members,” it added. “We once again apologize to fans who must have been surprised by the sudden news.”

“Please also show unchanging love and support for the six members who will spare no efforts in order to impress further,” the statement concluded.

Seok debuted as a member of ATBO back in 2022 after participating in IST Entertainment’s survival show “The Origin – A, B, Or What?”. Although Yang Dongwa was also initially expected to debut with the group, the agency later decided against it after his past misconduct when he was a student surfaced online. The group released their debut EP ‘The Beginning: 開花’ in July 2022. Their latest EP ‘Must Have’ was released in November last year.

Although it is unfortunate that Seok Rakwon will no longer be a part of ATBO, fans are also wishing for his speedy recovery and eventual return to the music industry. In the meantime, ATBO will promote with its six remaining members.

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Stalker of Apink’s Eunji Sentenced to Prison

IST Entertainment releases new company profile photos of Eunji. Credit: Facebook/Apink

A notorious stalker of Apink member Eunji has finally been sentenced to prison, South Korean media outlets reported on January 18. 

Through an official statement, Apink’s agency, IST Entertainment gave an update about the legal matter. In a translated post, IST Entertainment said that they filed a complaint against the said stalker who has been harassing Eunji since 2020.

According to reports, judge Lee Yong-Je, who handled the case, sentenced the 59-year old stalker, hereby referred to as Cho, to one year in prison and two years of probation for violating the Act of Punishment of Crime of Stalking.

Moreover, the Seoul Central District Court also ordered Cho to pay a fine of 100,000 Korean Won. Furthermore, Cho also has to fulfill 120 hours of community service and complete a 40-hour lecture program about prevention of repeated crimes related to stalking.

IST Entertainment then reassured the fans that they will continue to monitor the rights of their artists and take legal measures involving defamation, invasion of privacy, and other cases, without leniency.

Instances of Eunji being stalked by Cho

Other media outlets also reported that the court revealed that Cho started stalking Eunji in March of 2020. At the time, Cho sent a package to the singer’s home with a message that read: “Will you please accept me as your butler and partner?”

Two months later, this instance was followed by Cho tailing the Apink vocalist to her hair and makeup shop.

Then in April and July of 2021, the stalker was found waiting for Eunji around her apartment. In the same year, Cho received their first warning from the police. To which they made a promise that Cho will not approach Eunji again.

However, Cho continued to send messages to the idol through their phone and the DearU bubble chat room service. Eventually, Eunji had to discontinue using the platform due to Cho’s intense stalking.

The court, explaining their decision, stated that Cho’s acts were beyond the level of support a fan would send to a celebrity.  Moreover, judge Lee also pointed out that despite the victim’s shock, anxiety and fear regarding the situation, the stalker showed no signs of remorse.

As of writing, Eunji has yet to release her personal statement about the matter. 

Featured image: IST Entertainment releases new company profile photos of Eunji. Credit: Facebook/Apink

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THE BOYZ’ Sunwoo Diagnosed With Neuralgia and Neuritis

Sunwoo in a concept photo for the album 'Christmas in August.' Credit: Facebook/The Boyz

Amid THE BOYZ’ promotional activities for their latest EP Sixth Sense, member Sunwoo is grappling with the hurdles of neuralgia and neuritis. 

On Friday, November 24, THE BOYZ agency IST Entertainment provided an update on Sunwoo’s health condition, as well as his involvement in the group’s comeback promotions. 

According to the label, the idol complained of neck and shoulder pain on the morning of November 24. Although the initial plan was to promptly take him to the hospital for diagnosis and treatment, Sunwoo expressed a strong desire to participate in THE BOYZ‘ performance on the day’s episode of Music Bank.” In light of his wish, IST Entertainment decided to transport him to the hospital after the pre-recording.

Later that evening, the agency issued a statement revealing that following the hospital visit, Sunwoo had received a diagnosis of neuralgia and neuritis affecting the neck and shoulders. 

According to HealthDirect, neuralgia, or nerve pain, “occurs when a health condition affects the nerves that carry sensations to the brain.” Meanwhile, neuritis is the inflammation of one or more nerves, according to Brittanica. 

Despite medical advice recommending restraint from excessive movements,  IST Entertainment says that  Sunwoo wants to continue participating in THE BOYZ’ activities.

 

 “As Sunwoo expressed strong determination to take part in album promotions, we chose to respect the artist’s opinion. And it was decided that he would continue activities insofar as he can without overexerting himself,” the agency said. 

Moreover, the label said that the idol will undergo continuous treatment so that his condition will not worsen.

Fans express worry for THE BOYZ’ Sunwoo 

Although IST Entertainment promises fans that they will put their artist’s health as their top priority, fans couldn’t help but worry for the well-being of THE BOYZ. 

In particular, Sunwoo also had to take a hiatus from group activities due to health difficulties in August 2022. At the time, the agency said that the idol had “complained of health difficulties and worsening of his condition.” 

Meanwhile, Ju Haknyeon also recently announced his hiatus due to back injury. According to IST Entertainment, the idol has been experiencing back pain for some time, and his condition has recently aggravated. With this, Ju Haknyeon won’t be able to participate in THE BOYZ’ promotional activities for Sixth Sense, as well as the group’s world tour. 

Now that two members of THE BOYZ are experiencing body discomfort, fans are expressing their concern for the group’s welfare. 

Featured image: Sunwoo in a concept photo for the album ‘Christmas in August.’ Credit: Facebook/The Boyz

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THE BOYZ’s Ju Haknyeon Goes on Hiatus Due to Back Injury

Ju Haknyeon is taking a temporary hiatus from activities due to a back injury. Unfortunately, this means that the idol will be unable to participate in THE BOYZ’s upcoming comeback this month.

IST Entertainment Confirms THE BOYZ’s Ju Haknyeon’s Back Injury

On November 16, IST Entertainment shared a statement regarding Ju Haknyeon’s condition. The agency revealed that Ju Haknyeon had been experiencing back pain for some time, and the condition had recently aggravated. Following a medical examination, he was diagnosed with disc stenosis in the lower back, a condition that can result in pain or cramping in one or both legs.

“Ju Haknyeon has been suffering from back pain for a while now, so he has been periodically undergoing examination and treatment. However, because the pain recently worsened, he visited a hospital this afternoon on November 16 and underwent an additional thorough exam and treatment. The doctor advised him due to symptoms of disc stenosis in his lower back, he needs to avoid large movements and watch over his condition through medical treatment and physical rehabilitation,” the statement read.

In light of his back injury, Ju Haknyeon will be taking a break from all activities, including THE BOYZ’s upcoming comeback scheduled for November 20 and their concerts planned for December. The announcement was accompanied by a statement expressing the agency’s commitment to prioritizing Ju Haknyeon’s health and well-being during this period.

“He will not be participating in promotions for ‘The Boyz 2nd Album [Phantasy] Pt.2 SIxth Sense‘, which is scheduled to be released on November 20 or The Boyz’ ‘2nd World Tour: Zeneration – Encore‘ concert,” the statement confirmed.

Fans of THE BOYZ have shown support for Ju Haknyeon, expressing concern for his health and wishing him a swift recovery. The news underscores the physical toll that the demanding schedules and rigorous performances in the K-pop industry can have on artists, highlighting the importance of addressing health concerns promptly. We are wishing Ju Haknyeon a speedy recovery.

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VICTON’s Byungchan Signs With New Agency After IST Entertainment Exit

Choi Byungchan signs with a new agency

Byungchan has found a new agency. The VICTON member has signed an exclusive contract with a new company. The “King’s Affection” actor is now the first member to transfer agencies since leaving IST Entertainment last month.

Choi Byung-chan Becomes First VICTON Member To Sign With New Agency

New Way Company confirmed the news about Byungchan. “We recently signed an exclusive contract with Choi Byung-chan,” the agency stated.

“We will be unsparing in our support of Choi Byung-chan,” the statement added. The agency also expressed its intention to allow the artist to “showcase his personal strengths and limitless potential to his heart’s content.”

Byungchan debuted as a member of VICTON in 2016. He made his acting debut in the 2020 high school drama “Live On” and received praise for his three-dimensional acting. Choi Byung-chan’s most recent TV role was in the 2022 romantic comedy “Business Proposal”.

In April 2023, IST Entertainment announced that Byungchan and fellow VICTON members Hanse and Subin decided not to renew their exclusive contracts. The group’s maknae line later confirmed the news in letters posted on their personal Instagram accounts. For his part, Choi Byung-chan expressed his gratitude for fans who supported him since debut.

“From 2016, for seven years, I received such great and happy love,” Byungchan wrote. “After only knowing how to receive love, I also learned from ALICE how to give love. That’s why our time together was so precious and were moments I will never be able to forget. To ALICE, who only gave love over this long period of time, thank you and I love you.”

He also addressed his fellow VICTON members, confirming his support for them in their future endeavors.

“Although we are now walking our own paths, this isn’t a sad farewell,” Byungchan wrote. “To my VICTON members, who will become cooler for their new starts, I will always support you and I love you.”

In related news, VICTON member Han Seung Woo launched solo social media accounts in preparation for solo projects.

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VICTON’s Han Seung Woo Launches Solo Social Media Accounts

Han Seung Woo is preparing to pursue a solo career. The VICTON member has launched new social media accounts following the departure of Hanse, Byungchan, and Subin from IST Entertainment.

VICTON Member Han Seung Woo Debuts New Solo Social Media Accounts

On May 9, Han Seung Woo opened a new Twitter account where he announced his other social media accounts. The former X1 member shared his new Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter Staff accounts. In addition to that, Seungwoo posted an adorable selfie.

The new social media accounts suggest that Han Seung Woo will be promoting as a solo artist. This isn’t unusual considering that Seungwoo already has several solo releases. However, the launch of solo social media accounts confirms that he will not be promoting with VICTON for some time.

In April, IST Entertainment announced that VICTON members Do Hanse, Choi Byungchan, and Jung Subin did not renew their contracts with the company. The agency also confirmed that Seungwoo, Seungsik, and Sejun will stay until their contracts expire. The contracts of the hyung line had previously been altered due to their military enlistment.

Seungwoo debuted with VICTON in November 2016 with the EP ‘Voice To The World’. In 2019, he competed in the Mnet survival reality show “Produce X 101” where he placed third in the final voting.

Han Seung Woo debuted as a member of X1 but later returned to VICTON after the reality show group was disbanded. Although he was originally the leader of VICTON, Seungwoo chose to let fellow member Seungsik continue to be the group leader.

In 2020, Seungwoo released his first solo EP ‘Fame’ and dropped a second EP ‘Fade’ before enlisting for military service. He was discharged from the military on January 27, 2023.

VICTON’s future has not yet been addressed by IST Entertainment. Stay tuned for more updates on this story.

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Eunji Assures Fans After APINK Members Sign With New Agency

Eunji wants fans to know that APINK will stay together. The “Work Later, Drink Now” star assured PANDAs that the group will continue working together. Jung Eun-ji made the promise after Chorong, Bomi, Namjoo, and Hayoung signed up with a new agency.

APINK’s Chorong, Bomi, Namjoo, and Hayoung Sign With New Company

Choi Creative Lab issued a statement confirming that four APINK members have signed with the agency.

“We notify that Apink members Chorong, Bomi, Namjoo, and Hayoung have signed exclusive contracts with the agency, effective beginning in May of 2023,” the statement reads. “At Choi Creative Lab, we plan on supporting the four members of Apink in both their team and individual promotions to the best of our capabilities.”

“We will provide for our artists with warm and magnanimous leadership as to foster their growth, and also make many happy memories together,” it continued.

The news comes almost immediately after IST Entertainment announced that Chorong, Bomi, Namjoo, and Hayoung have not renewed their contracts with the company. Eunji, who has been doing solo promotions, chose to stay with the agency.

Eunji Promises APINK Will Continue Group Activities

Jung Eun-ji expressed her joy for the other APINK members after they found a new company. The “Reply 1997” star shared an update on Weverse about the group’s future.

“Nothing has changed!! You don’t have to take it too seriously,” she wrote to PANDAs. “We’ll still be Apink in the future.”

APINK recently dropped their tenth EP ‘SELF’ and will continue to promote their new single “D N D”.

In related news, IST Entertainment recently announced that the VICTON maknae line has chosen not to renew their contracts with the company. Hanse, Byungchan, and Subin each shared their handwritten letters confirming their exit from the agency. Meanwhile, Seungwoo, Seungsik, and Sejun will complete their contracts with the agency. The hyung line’s contracts were moved to accommodate their military enlistment.

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APINK Members Chorong, Bomi, Namjoo, and Hayoung Leave IST Entertainment

The members of APINK have made a decision about their future. Chorong, Bomi, Namjoo, and Hayoung have decided to leave IST Entertainment. Meanwhile, Eunji has chosen to stay with the agency to continue her solo promotions.

IST Entertainment Shares Updates On APINK’s Contract Renewal

IST Entertainment shared an official statement regarding APINK’s future. The statement confirmed that Chorong, Bomi, Namjoo, and Hayoung chose not to renew their contract.

“Ahead of the end of Apink’s exclusive contracts with our agency, we and the members put our heads together and carefully discussed the matter,” the statement read.

“It was ultimately determined that for the sake of each member’s new growth in the future, Park Chorong, Yoon Bomi, Kim Namjoo, and Oh Hayoung will end their beautiful 12-year journey with us, which began with their debut, at the end of April,” it continues.

APINK’s Eunji Renews Contract With IST Entertainment

The agency confirmed that Eunji renewed her contract and will continue to pursue solo activities.

“We recently renewed our contract with Jung Eun Ji, and we will be continuing our relationship,” it reads. “In addition to her activities as a singer, Jung Eun Ji also plans to greet you soon with a new acting project, and we plan to consistently support her so that she can stand out in a wide array of fields.”

IST Entertainment Clarifies APINK Disbandment Speculations

The statement further explained that APINK will not disband and will continue to pursue group activities.

“Regardless of their contracts, all of the Apink members are firm in their love of the group and their determination to continue their group activities, so they have promised to carry on with their group activities without disbandment,” it reads. “Our agency will cooperate with Apink after discussions regarding their future activities, and we plan to work together with them so that they can stay together as a group.”

IST Entertainment recently confirmed that the VICTON maknae line has chosen not to renew their contracts. Hanse, Byungchan, and Subin each shared their handwritten letters confirming their exit from the agency. Meanwhile, Seungwoo, Seungsik, and Sejun will complete their contracts with the agency. The hyung line’s contracts were moved to accommodate their military enlistment.

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VICTON Hanse, Byungchan, and Subin Leave IST Entertainment

The VICTON maknae line has decided their future. Hanse, Byungchan, and Subin chose not to renew their contracts with IST Entertainment.

VICTON Members Hanse, Byungchan, and Subin Exit IST Entertainment

IST Entertainment previously responded to reports that the VICTON members are considering leaving the company. Several reports suggest that the remaining six members of the idol group will not renew their contracts with the agency. However, the boys plan to continue performing as a group in the future.

“We will release a statement on the exclusive contracts of the members once we have confirmed all details,” the company said in a statement.

Since then, the agency formerly known as Plan A Entertainment has issued a second statement about VICTON.

“The agency will conclude its management duties of VICTON members Hanse, Byungchan, and Subin as of April 20 KST with the expiration of these individual members’ exclusive contracts,” it read.

“This decision was reached based on mutual respect after a lengthy and serious debate between the members and the agency ahead of their contract expirations,” the statement continued.

VICTON Hyung Line Still Staying With IST Entertainment

The statement also addressed the contracts for Seungwoo, Seungsik, and Sejun who have enlisted for military service. IST Entertainment confirmed that the hyung line will continue to be under their management. This is due to their contracts being moved to accommodate their military enlistment.

“These three remaining VICTON members will actively pursue their solo schedules such as their musical roles and/or their mandatory military service duties,” the statement read. It was also noted that the idols “will receive full support from IST Entertainment for various activities in the field.”

Seungwoo was recently discharged while Seungsik is currently carrying out mandatory duties. Sejun will enlist in June this year.

Hanse, Byungchan, and Subin Address IST Entertainment Exit

Since the announcement, the VICTON maknae line has shared letters addressed to ALICEs on their personal Instagram accounts.

“Although the ‘Victon Hanse’ has not been able to fully pay it off to all those who have shared my dream and youth and brightened up the days, he will retreat a feeble step for a giant leap,” Do Hanse wrote. “I believe that the newer ‘Hanse’, soon to be presented, will live up to the debt to finish paying back the love he owes.”

“From 2016, for seven years, I received such great and happy love,” Byungchan wrote. “After only knowing how to receive love, I also learned from ALICE how to give love. That’s why our time together was so precious and were moments I will never be able to forget. To ALICE, who only gave love over this long period of time, thank you and I love you.”

“Regretfully, VICTON has come to walk our separate ways, but I’m trying to move forward with courage and go step by step towards happiness,” Subin wrote. “But sometimes I suddenly get afraid that a moment will come where I think ‘was it a dream?’ about these dream-like memories.”

“I will look back on each of our memories together and cherish them for a long, long time. I hope they will remain as good memories for our ALICE too and become of at least a bit of help,” he added.

VICTON debuted as a seven-member group in November 2016. Original member Heo Chan left the group in October 2022.

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