'Produce 101 Japan' alumnus group JO1's Ohira Shosei and ME:I member Shizuku have suspended activities amid a two-timing controversy.
On the 15th, Japanese entertainment outlet Shūkan Bunshun reported that Ohira Shosei, while having a non-celebrity girlfriend, had inappropriate meetings with Shizuku, causing shock.
Afterwards, Ohira Shosei's agency Lapone Entertainment released an official statement on its website saying "an issue contrary to our company's regulations regarding Ohira Shosei was discovered," acknowledging the two-timing allegations.
It added, "This is a serious act that goes against the expectations of our fans, and we judged that a period is necessary for him to reflect on his behavior," and "according to this, he will suspend activities for the time being starting today."
The agency continued, "We offer our deep apologies for suddenly informing the fans who support him and related parties. We also repeatedly apologize for shortcomings in our management system and response," and added, "We will thoroughly guide and educate all artists again to ensure they follow a code of conduct that meets fans' expectations."
Lapone Girls, the girl group label under Lapone Entertainment and the agency of ME:I, also announced on its website that "an issue contrary to our company's regulations regarding Shizuku was discovered," and that she will suspend activities.
Meanwhile, Ohira Shosei appeared on the 2019 broadcast of 'Produce 101 Japan' and was selected for the final debut lineup, debuting as part of the 11-member boy group JO1. Shizuku similarly debuted and is active as part of the nine-member girl group ME:I through the 2023 broadcast of 'Produce 101 Japan The Girls'.<
[Photo] Lapone Entertainment, Lapone Girls
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