Mnet's 'Boys Planet 2' participants Kim Gun-woo and Kang Woo-jin were revealed to be affiliated with Wake One rather than as individual trainees.
Wake One said on the 21st, "Recently, posts regarding our company and affiliated trainees have been circulating in online communities, and we are providing our stance," adding that "Kim Gun-woo and Kang Woo-jin, who are participating in 'Boys Planet 2' in their personal capacity, are currently trainees affiliated with Wake One."
The agency explained, "Prior to Kim Gun-woo's trainee contract with Wake One, he was in the process of applying and being evaluated for the program," adding that "since he had already been preparing to appear on the program as an individual, it was difficult to participate as part of an existing team with other Wake One trainees due to scheduling conflicts. Therefore, after discussing with Kim Gun-woo, it was decided that he would appear as an individual."
It continued, "Kang Woo-jin was a trainee at Wake One aiming to develop his abilities as a singer-songwriter. There were musical concept differences compared to the existing trainees preparing for the program, and he had no prior experience receiving professional idol training. Therefore, we judged that appearing as an individual would be more appropriate rather than as part of the Wake One team."
Wake One said, "This decision was made considering the individuality and musical concepts of each trainee, but ultimately, we sincerely apologize for causing confusion and concern to the program's production team, viewers, and fans," adding, "After extensive discussion to make a responsible choice, Wake One decided to terminate the trainee contracts with Kim Gun-woo and Kang Woo-jin through mutual agreement. Both participants plan to continue their appearances as individuals, just as they did at the initial program application stage."
However, regarding Kim Gun-woo, it stated, "We deeply reflect on the fact that we did not sufficiently fulfill our obligation to protect as his agency while he participated in the program in his personal capacity. Accordingly, although the trainee contract has been terminated, we plan to take proactive measures regarding any false information related to Kim Gun-woo."
Earlier, following the broadcast of 'Boys Planet 2', a personality controversy surrounding Kim Gun-woo drew attention on online communities.
In relation to this, at that time, Mnet's 'Boys Planet 2' team told OSEN, "The production team is aware of the seriousness of this matter and is currently verifying the facts regarding the claims raised through social media," adding, "We are working to ascertain the exact details through the individuals mentioned in the posts, as well as individuals who were associated with B Entertainment at that time and relevant acquaintances, and separately, we are closely reviewing whether there are any legal issues."
[Photo] Mnet
[OSEN]