Heeseung Departs K-Pop Group ENHYPEN to Pursue Solo Career

Lee Heeseung, 24, has officially departed from the K-pop group ENHYPEN to pursue a solo career, BELIFT LAB announced on Tuesday, March 10. The group will continue as a six-member ensemble, while Heeseung will remain signed with BELIFT LAB, a subsidiary of HYBE.

Official Announcement and Reasoning

BELIFT LAB confirmed Heeseung's departure, stating the decision was reached after extensive discussions regarding the group's future direction and Heeseung's individual musical ambitions. The agency emphasized that the decision followed a long period of deliberation involving Heeseung, the group, and management.

BELIFT LAB indicated that Heeseung possesses a distinct musical vision, and the decision was made for the future paths of both ENHYPEN and Heeseung.

The agency also acknowledged that the news might be "a lot to process" and could be "received with mixed reactions," requesting understanding from fans.

Statements from Heeseung and ENHYPEN Members

Heeseung addressed fans, known as ENGENE, in a message posted on Weverse, expressing gratitude to his bandmates and supporters. He stated he was able to pursue his dream thanks to them. He confirmed he is working on a solo album and mentioned discussing his solo artistic endeavors with BELIFT LAB.

Heeseung affirmed that the decision was made after careful and long deliberation to pursue a new direction.

Heeseung expressed hope of returning "in a better way" and presenting an improved version of himself, stating his intent to continue supporting ENHYPEN and describing his time with the group as significant.

The remaining members—Jungwon, Jay, Jake, Sunghoon, Sunoo, and Ni-ki—released a joint statement on X on March 10. They acknowledged that ENGENE might be surprised and expressed concern regarding fan reactions, conveying that seeing ENGENE concerned was painful for them. They described their time together as "precious beyond words."

The group affirmed their respect and support for Heeseung’s decision and his new beginning.

The members also stated their commitment to "grow even more" to "ease ENGENE’s worries" and "create happy days," concluding with a message of thanks and love for their fanbase and an intent to "become stronger."

Background and Group Status

Heeseung debuted as a founding member of ENHYPEN in November 2020, following his appearance on the survival audition program I-LAND. The group's career commenced with the release of "Border: Day One." This marks the first lineup change for ENHYPEN since its debut.

The group, now comprising six members, has achieved notable success, including topping the Top Album Sales chart with their EP "THE SIN : VANISH" shortly before Heeseung's departure. No specific plans for upcoming releases or tour activities have been announced for the six-member group.

Fan Reaction

The announcement generated concern among fans. Some fans on social media platforms expressed sadness regarding the alteration to ENHYPEN's lineup. Speculation arose among some regarding additional reasons for the departure or potential pressure on Heeseung, with some expressing skepticism regarding the circumstances and timing of his exit.