Following Seunghan’s exit from RIIZE, fans voiced their worries for the remaining six members as images of them at the airport gained traction on social media. On October 11, Wizard Production announced Seunghan’s return to the group after a 10-month hiatus. However, in light of negative feedback from Korean fans, it was revealed on October 13 that he had chosen to part ways with the group.
The next day, Shotaro, Eunseok, Sungchan, Wonbin, Sohee, and Anton were spotted returning to Korea at Incheon International Airport, donning masks amidst their overseas schedule. These photos quickly spread across fan platforms, raising concerns for their well-being. Notably, Wonbin had shared a post on Weverse to commemorate Seunghan’s return, but it was deleted after the announcement of his departure.
Fans feared that the group members might have learned about Seunghan’s exit only after disembarking from their flight. Netizens directed their frustration at SM Entertainment and Wizard Production for what they perceived as mishandling of the situation, taking to social media to air their grievances.
“Absolutely gut-wrenching,” a fan remarked.
“Just saw RIIZE arrive at the airport and they looked completely dejected. @SMTOWNGLOBAL, you’ve broken these boys, and consequences will follow,” a fan expressed.
“This is the most heartbreaking airport video I’ve ever seen of RIIZE, or maybe just any video,” another fan commented.
A wave of similar sentiments flooded social media as onlookers reacted to the group’s airport appearance.
“We could’ve had cheerful and smiling pictures, but no, you love seeing RIIZE in distress due to the bullying of their friend!” a user stated.
“Do you OT6 stans realize the harm you’ve done? Seunghan didn’t tarnish their image; you did. You claim to care, yet look at how devastated RIIZE was at the airport! Parasocial WEIRDOS,” another user wrote.
“RIIZE arrived at the airport with their faces mostly obscured, eyes hidden under hats, and Sungchan appearing quite upset,” a user commented.
Observers noted that Sohee seemed particularly distressed, with suggestions that he may have even cried.
“Many of those fans who sent flowers have the audacity to show up at the airport; they lack any shame,” replied a fan.
“The boys were once smiling so brightly; now Sohee is in tears at the airport. It’s appalling to think you believe your actions ‘protected’ them. I’m leaving the RIIZE fandom, and others should too,” stated a fan.
“Sohee didn’t even want to face the cameras, but they were shoved in his face without any respect for his boundaries,” a user remarked.
Seunghan’s Departure from RIIZE Following Fan Backlash
On October 11, Wizard Production confirmed Seunghan’s return after a lengthy hiatus due to personal matters prior to their debut. While some fans rallied in support of the seven-member lineup, a faction expressed discontent regarding his return.
A number of anti-fans sent numerous funeral flower wreaths demanding his removal, making it clear that they only wished to see the original six members of RIIZE.
Photos and videos of these flower wreaths placed outside SM Entertainment’s headquarters in Seoul began to circulate widely online. Consequently, on October 13, Wizard Production acknowledged the fans’ reactions and announced that Seunghan would no longer participate in activities with RIIZE, stating that this decision was made for the well-being of both the members and their supporters. This sparked a heated debate online, particularly as many international fans had been excited about his return.
In the meantime, RIIZE successfully wrapped up their fan sign tour in Seoul at KSPO Dome on September 15, 2024.
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