Fans Express Disappointment as SM Entertainment Removes Seunghan’s Name from RIIZE Group Page
On October 15, 2024, SM Entertainment made an update to their website, officially removing Seunghan from the roster of RIIZE members. Nevertheless, the singer known for “Get A Guitar”remains under the company’s label, with his name still listed separately as an artist.
In response to this decision, fans have taken to social media, expressing their outrage and labeling the removal as unreasonable, unfair, and exclusivist.
“I can’t help but wonder how the group is coping. Sorry, RIIZE, but brace yourselves for a downturn. This separation is unnecessary,”
“We won’t be backing the group without Seunghan. Boycotting is the way forward,”- another user claimed.
“It’s ridiculous that this company bowed to a handful of toxic fans. They bullied him, issued threats, and invaded his privacy — all over dating. Let them step on countless Legos and find no happiness,”- a fan commented.
On October 11, 2024, SM Entertainment initially announced Seunghan’s return to RIIZE with plans for his activities to resume in November. However, within just 48 hours, they backtracked following an intense backlash from the group’s Korean fanbase.
The fact that Seunghan’s name continued to appear on the official RIIZE member list provided fans with a flicker of hope for a possible reversal regarding his removal.
“I guess this confirms he’s out for good. It’s unbelievable that SM Entertainment has succumbed to a bunch of foolish solo K-fans. They seem like slaves to the money of sasaeng fans and don’t prioritize their artists’ safety,”- a user expressed.
“They brand themselves as a ‘global group’ yet cater to toxic K-Fans. F*** you, SM,”- an upset fan articulated.
“This is genuinely evil. I refuse to purchase anything from SM again. What the f***,”- a K-pop fan declared.
Despite these developments, many fans continue to hold onto hope, rallying for justice on behalf of Seunghan.
“DON’T LOSE HOPE; IT’S NOT IMPOSSIBLE. They reinstated him before after ten long months. Let’s bring him back once again. Seunghan, we will always stand by you.”- a fan encouraged.
“Don’t let this discourage you; if anything, I hope it fuels your determination even more.”- another user expressed optimism.
Amidst the polarized reactions to Seunghan’s official removal from RIIZE on SM Entertainment’s website, many have taken the opportunity to express their support for his solo career, continuing to recognize him as an artist within the agency.
Fans believe that pursuing a solo path may ultimately be more beneficial for the mental well-being of the 21-year-old artist.
“I genuinely wish he would consider redebuting or going solo, as staying with RIIZE could subject him to further harassment and negativity, which would be detrimental to his health… and of course, not under SM,”- a concerned fan remarked.
“If he chooses to go solo, I will wholeheartedly support him. His talent and charm deserve recognition, regardless of his personal life,”- another supporter voiced.
Additionally, the group’s Spotify bio has also been updated to exclude Seunghan’s name.
Seunghan’s Departure from RIIZE
This change on SM Entertainment’s website follows the announcement from Wizard Production, the team behind RIIZE, stating Seunghan’s departure from the group on October 13, 2024.
Since then, fans of the “Talk Saxy”artist have been actively boycotting the group across various social media and streaming platforms, trending numerous hashtags to advocate for Seunghan’s reinstatement.
They are also calling for an apology from the company, citing mishandling of the situation which led to Seunghan facing grave backlash and even death threats from some Korean fans. Following the news of his departure, RIIZE’s official social media accounts have seen a significant loss of followers.
The 21-year-old artist had been on hiatus after the release of leaked pre-debut photos from his adolescence, resulting in intense criticism from Korean fans, which sidelined him from group activities for ten months.
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