‘JUSTICE FOR SEUNGHAN’ Trends on X as Fans Rally Outside SM Headquarters for the Return of Former RIIZE Member

On Friday, October 18, a significant gathering of fans and online supporters convened outside the SM Entertainment headquarters, demanding the reinstatement of Seunghan, a former member of RIIZE, back into the group. Demonstrators arrived with standees, candles, banners, and various items to display their unwavering support for the K-pop star, who recently left the group.

Numerous fans sat for hours outside the building, expressing their determination. The demonstration featured hired protest trucks that conveyed the motive behind the gathering: advocating for Seunghan’s return to the boy band. Consequently, hashtags such as ‘JUSTICE FOR SEUNGHAN’ and ‘SM SUPPORTS BULLYING’ began to gain traction on social media platform X.

Many of these trending hashtags not only highlighted the scene during the protest outside SM’s headquarters but also articulated the protesters’ intentions and demands. The demonstration is presumed to persist for several days, as participants pledged to continue their efforts until Seunghan is reinstated in RIIZE. Below are some notable fan reactions:

“THESE ARE THE BRIIZE WHO LOVES RII7E,”wrote a fan on X.

“We stand bright for Seunghan. He deserves an apology from SM and from those who bullied him,”remarked another supporter.

“I’m crying, this is the best thing to wake up to! I’m so proud of everyone who was able to attend,”shared a netizen.

“Proud to witness this protest being conducted with respect and dignity. This is our history!! commented an X user.

More fans expressed their joy witnessing fellow enthusiasts standing up for Seunghan, demonstrating solidarity amid his unexpected exit from RIIZE.

“They even cleaned up so nicely afterward; THESE are the mature and loving Briize who adore RIIZE. Thank you for being our voices,”noted a user on X.

“True heroes wear no capes. Thank you for being our voice,”added another supporter.

“So orderly and well-organized; the fact that no one was harmed during the protest makes me love it here,”expressed a fan on X.

“United we stand for justice, Seunghan’s voice will be heard!”added another participant.

Understanding the Circumstances of Seunghan’s Departure from RIIZE

On October 11, SM Entertainment, along with its subsidiary Wizard Production, announced that Seunghan would gradually be returning to the K-pop boy band. He had entered an indefinite hiatus in November 2023 due to a series of controversies that emerged.

These controversies involved leaked images of him and his rumoured former girlfriend, alongside screenshots of conversations with friends. When the idol’s return to the group was initially announced, many fans celebrated. However, less than two days later, the agencies issued another announcement regarding Seunghan’s departure from the group.

The agencies stated that the decision was influenced by the backlash received following the announcement of Seunghan’s return. Allegedly, a significant number of fans voiced their objections to his return, claiming they would not support RIIZE if he was reinstated. Consequently, it was mentioned that Seunghan himself suggested his departure for the sake of both the group and its fans.

“In light of the feedback from fans following the announcement of his return, we reflected on each opinion and recognized that our choice had caused more harm and confusion than expected. Importantly, Seunghan has consistently expressed his wish to leave the band for the benefit of both the members and the fans.”

Notwithstanding, many are standing firm against the agency’s decision regarding Seunghan’s exit. From digital campaigns to physical demonstrations, fans have been actively engaged in various initiatives to restore RIIZE to its original lineup. However, SM Entertainment has yet to publicly address these protests and campaigns.

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