On March 10, Belift Lab confirmed that Lee Heeseung would be leaving ENHYPEN after discussing the group’s future with the other members. The agency made clear that the decision was made after extensive discussions and fully respected Heeseung’s personal musical direction.
Heeseung himself posted a handwritten message on the Weverse platform, explaining that he had thought long and hard and hoped to return to fans in an improved version of himself.
Despite these official announcements, some of the fandom expressed anger on social media. Some fans questioned the reasons for the departure and accused the agency of forcing Heeseung to leave the group.
These accusations led to cyberattacks: some fans sent over 10,000 emails a day to journalists. On forums and social media, they also spread unverified rumors, claiming that the agency had influenced the idol’s decision.
On March 12, producer and composer El Capitxn (Jang Yi Jeong), who works at HYBE, responded on his Instagram account to these criticisms. He wrote, “Stop sending me stories about Lee Heeseung, you idiots. If you are true fans, support him before throwing stones. Why do you keep blaming me, you fools?” Later, he closed the comments and suggested taking the debate to other platforms, saying, “Alright, get lost. Go to Twitter.”
Several internet users and Korean media criticized these attacks on El Capitxn and the behavior of some ENHYPEN fans. They believe these reactions go beyond the limits and target people who are not responsible for the decision.
This controversy is reminiscent of past events involving the ENHYPEN fandom. In 2023, some fans held a demonstration with a truck outside HYBE’s headquarters demanding the complete removal of a choreography from the song “Bite Me” because it included dancers. With Heeseung’s departure, some fans planned a similar rally to protest this decision.
Kyunghyang Sports quickly covered the issue, publishing an article titled “Heeseung wants a fresh start, but angry fans are blocking his way.”
The newspaper explains that asking Heeseung to continue the group’s activities could limit his artistic freedom. It states that the agency and the remaining members fully support the decision and that continuing to insist on canceling the departure goes beyond normal fan influence.
The experts also clarify that criticizing the agency’s communication is acceptable, but believing unconfirmed rumors and organizing protests constitutes harassment. They emphasize that an adult idol who chooses his music career should not face excessive pressure. All official parties have confirmed their support for Heeseung.
The remaining members wrote, “Seeing worried and hurt fans is the most painful thing for us. We respect and support Heeseung’s decision and his new start.” Despite this, some fans continue to demand the member’s return and spread conspiracy-like claims.
What is your opinion on Heeseung’s departure and the fans’ reactions?
