Former Riize member Seunghan to make solo debut in 2025
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Seunghan shared his first photos on his new social media account on Nov 15.
PHOTO: SEUNGHAN.SMOFFICIAL/INSTAGRAM
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SEOUL – South Korean singer Seunghan had to leave K-pop boy band Riize due to controversy surrounding his private life. But he is set to rise again as a solo artiste in the second half of 2025.
The band’s agency SM Entertainment announced on Nov 15 that the 21-year-old is preparing to go it alone.
“He is undergoing systematic training, and receiving support in production, management and other areas necessary for a solo debut,” the agency said.
“Updates regarding Seunghan will be shared through his newly launched official social media account. As a solo artiste, he aims to showcase a new side of himself and pursue his talents and dreams. We kindly ask for your warm support.”
Seunghan, whose full name is Hong Seung-han, debuted in September 2023 as a member of the seven-member boy group Riize.
However, he faced criticism after photos from his trainee days surfaced, showing him spending time with a girlfriend and smoking in public while underage. Following the controversy, Seunghan halted his activities in November 2023, and Riize continued as a six-member group.
SM Entertainment announced Seunghan’s return to the group about 10 months later on Oct 11, saying: “Riize’s next chapter will hold greater meaning with all seven members together.”
The announcement was met with strong opposition from fans, known as Briize. Funeral wreaths demanding his removal were sent to SM Entertainment’s headquarters in Seoul, while boycotts of Riize merchandise gained traction on social media.
SM Entertainment reversed its decision two days later on Oct 13, announcing that Seunghan had voluntarily chosen to leave the group.
In a handwritten letter posted on fan community platform Weverse, Seunghan wrote: “I believe that stepping down from the team is the best path for everyone. I don’t want to cause further confusion or hurt for the fans, nor do I wish to harm the members or the company any more.” THE KOREA HERALD/ASIA NEWS NETWORK
