The band Xdinary Heroes' former member Geon Il's departure from the team prompted contradictory positions from JYP and Geon Il's side. A rebuttal statement was posted seven days after the departure.
On the 20th, Geon Il's legal representative, attorney Seong Jae-hwan of the law firm Juwon, said in a statement, "The artist deeply apologizes for causing worry to EXDIZ fans and the members because of this matter."
He added, "Even if there were circumstances, the artist sincerely wishes to express remorse for the disappointment and heartbreak that fans who have supported the artist for a long time may have felt." He said Geon Il also personally conveyed an apology to the members for causing the team difficulties due to his carelessness.
Geon Il's side acknowledged, "Using inappropriate expressions in a private setting is an oversight that cannot be justified for any reason," and explained the circumstances, saying, "However, the artist was experiencing considerable psychological burden at the time due to certain online posts and excessive invasions of privacy, and in the process of expressing those feelings during a private conversation, he used inappropriate expressions."
However, the legal representative emphasized, "After reviewing the records, it is not true that the artist has been constantly and repeatedly swearing at or criticizing EXDIZ fans," and stressed, "We make clear that it is also not true that the artist badmouthed fellow members or met other people while dating."
In addition, Geon Il's side spoke about the relationship with the agency, saying, "The artist did not voluntarily leave the group, nor did he agree to terminate the exclusive contract. In light of the circumstances and nature of this matter, it is hard to see grounds for terminating the exclusive contract."
However, Geon Il said he does not want to add further fatigue to fans over this issue and wishes to continue amicable talks with the agency. He also said he determined that legal civil and criminal action could be possible regarding the initial exposé post, but at this time, according to Geon Il's wishes, he has decided not to pursue legal action.
Earlier, JYP Entertainment issued an official statement on the 13th saying, "Regarding matters related to Xdinary Heroes member Geon Il, we deeply recognize the gravity of the situation and conducted extensive discussions with the artist from multiple angles. As a result, we judged it would be difficult to continue activities together as a team and decided to terminate the exclusive contract by mutual agreement."
JYP added, "Accordingly, Geon Il will leave Xdinary Heroes as of today and conclude his activities with the team. We sincerely apologize for causing concern to fans with this sudden news," and added, "Xdinary Heroes will continue activities as a five-member group."
[Photo] OSEN DB
[OSEN]