SM Entertainment Takes Legal Action Against Malicious Posts Targeting Seunghan and RIIZE: “We Will Respond Strongly Without Compromise”

On October 17, 2024, SM Entertainment officially declared its intention to pursue legal action in response to violations impacting their artists, notably RIIZE and Seunghan. They shared dual statements on their verified X account—one pertaining to a former member of RIIZE and another for the current group members.

The entertainment company emphasized its commitment to combating unlawful activities, which encompass the manufacturing and sharing of misinformation, personal attacks, disparagement, and defamatory remarks aimed at both the ex-member and current RIIZE members. Additionally, the notice about the 21-year-old previous RIIZE member stated:

“We will initiate legal proceedings against all unlawful activities involving Seunghan as soon as we ascertain the extent of the harm, and we will unyieldingly confront these issues without compromise or leniency.”

This announcement follows the significant backlash received by the former RIIZE member, which included funeral wreaths from Korean netizens after news broke of his anticipated return to the group on October 11, 2024. Subsequently, Seunghan declared his decision to exit the team on October 13, 2024.

SM Entertainment to Pursue Legal Measures Against Defamation of RIIZE and Seunghan

SM Entertainment disseminated two distinct statements addressing both Seunghan and RIIZE. The communication regarding the 21-year-old artist underscored that the agency has been vigilantly observing harmful online content that comprises false narratives, personal attacks, and slander directed at the singer since his debut.

Furthermore, they revealed their compilation of substantial evidence which they plan to utilize in filing complaints against these illicit actions. They made it clear that engaging in the creation and distribution of falsehoods is unequivocally criminal behavior.

For the current members of RIIZE—Shotaro, Eunseok, Sungchan, Wonbin, Sohee, and Anton—SM Entertainment noted the receipt of malevolent posts and threats that have emerged through both fan alerts and their proactive monitoring. The agency highlighted their ongoing efforts to file lawsuits and promised to keep the public informed about the progress of these legal proceedings.

Echoing Seunghan’s remarks, the agency reiterated that generating or spreading harmful rumors is a criminal offense, affirming their intention to take robust legal actions against individuals maliciously targeting RIIZE on social media platforms.

“We reinforce our stance on confronting these unlawful actions without any settlement or leniency, and we urge everyone to refrain from participating in such incidents.”

In conclusion, the company expressed gratitude towards fans for actively reporting and assisting in the protection of the group. The statements have elicited varied reactions from the fanbase, with some expressing frustration over what they consider a delayed response. While many appreciate the commitment to pursue legal recourse, fans contend that earlier statements during Seunghan’s return might have prevented his departure from the group.

Following the exit of the young artist, international fans have vocally boycotted RIIZE’s activities, calling for his reinstatement (announced on October 11) and demanding an apology for the severe mental distress caused by the harassment that led to his departure.

Former Day6 member eaJ has recently voiced his support for the ex-RIIZE member, suggesting that those who sent intimidating funeral wreaths should face charges akin to attempted murder. Additionally, numerous global K-pop merchandise suppliers have ceased the distribution of RIIZE’s albums and merchandise in solidarity with fan protests.

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