The controversy surrounding the private life of Joohaknyeon, a former member of the boy group The Boyz, has escalated beyond a simple incident, leading to an official apology from the agency's chairman. With public opinion rapidly deteriorating, particularly among the fandom, there have also been movements to sever ties with collaborative brands, indicating the seriousness of the situation. It marks an unprecedented apology from the chairman.
On the night of the 18th, Chairman Cha Gawon of the agency One Hundred released an official statement through a press release, saying, "We sincerely apologize for causing deep concern among the fans and the public due to various situations related to our affiliated artists and members in recent times." He continued, "We humbly accept that our internal management of private lives and attitudes has been insufficient."
This is the aftermath of the controversy surrounding the private life of Joohaknyeon, a member of The Boyz. Joohaknyeon announced a sudden halt to activities due to 'personal reasons' on the 16th, and controversy arose after reports surfaced on the 18th showing him dining with Asuka Kirara, a former adult film actress, in Japan. According to local media, the two were captured hugging and being physically affectionate in a pub in Roppongi, Tokyo.
The fallout was significant. Joohaknyeon officially withdrew from The Boyz just two days after halting his activities, and a domestic media outlet raised allegations of involvement in prostitution. In response, Joohaknyeon posted a handwritten apology on social media early on the 19th, stating, "There were absolutely no illegal activities," completely denying the allegations. However, the fandom has already turned its back.
The most immediate severing of ties began with collaborative brands. The global art brand 'Esther Bunny,' which was preparing a collaborative exhibition with The Boyz, officially announced the cancellation of the exhibition. The 'Esther Bunny Exhibition: In Search of Myself' was originally an anticipated healing exhibition reflecting the brand slogan 'Love myself, Love yourself,' but the exhibition side stated, "Due to unforeseen external circumstances, we reluctantly decided to cancel the exhibition after long deliberation," adding, "All pre-purchased tickets will be fully refunded." The prevailing interpretation is that The Boyz's image has been shaken to the point where it can no longer align with the brand.
Ultimately, despite Joohaknyeon's explanations, public opinion did not cease, and as brands quickly distanced themselves, the agency's top officials were led to follow suit with apologies. Chairman Cha noted, "I recognize the responsibilities are heavy as a result of these issues," bowing his head. He also added that, "We will restore fans' trust with a more responsible attitude, including education for ethical consciousness and system improvements."
Some analysts say, "It is unprecedented for the chairman to apologize directly for a simple private life controversy," suggesting it is a preemptive response aimed at minimizing fandom defections and commercial losses. The agency also stated, "We will continue to provide full support so that the remaining members can carry on their activities without disruption." However, amidst the perspective that "the controversy surrounding Joohaknyeon will not end simply with the expulsion of one member," considerable repercussions for the overall image and trajectory of The Boyz are anticipated.
[Photo] Provided by One Hundred, OSEN DB.
[OSEN]