On June 18, 2025, One Hundred Label announced that Ju Haknyeon would no longer stay with THE BOYZ or the agency. They made this statement after news reports tied him to a controversial event in Japan.
News1, referencing Japan's Shūkan Bunshun, reported that the South Korean singer had been spotted in a bar located in Tokyo’s Roppongi area. He was seen with some acquaintances and former Japanese adult video star Kirara Asuka. This incident stirred up rumors and led to Korean media claiming that he had been involved in soliciting prostitution. These allegations have since drawn a lot of public attention.
The agency ended its contract with Ju Haknyeon after the recent events. They announced through an official statement that he would step back from all activities with the group and agency. This decision brings a big shift for the group, which will now move forward with ten members.
The South Korean singer responded to the accusations in a handwritten letter he posted on his Instagram. He admitted attending a gathering mentioned in the news, saying it happened in the early hours of May 30, 2025, and included alcohol. However, he denied taking part in any illegal acts or involvement with prostitution.
The former idol said he felt regret about the situation and apologized for worrying everyone. His message read:
"Hello, this is Ju Haknyeon. Firstly, I’m sorry to have worried everyone due to such unsavory matters as well as the fans who were very shocked by the news reports about me. On May 30, 2025, I had been present at a gathering with alcohol involved around dawn, along with my acquaintances. It was true that I was there, but it is totally untrue that I participated in neither illegal actions or prostitution as suggested by articles and rumors. I am deeply reflecting on my actions and want to offer my sincerest apologies to those who were shocked."
One Hundred Label confirms Ju Haknyeon’s departure from THE BOYZ
Before the official announcement about his departure, Ju Haknyeon had announced that he would step back from group activities due to personal matters. But as reports continued developing, the agency confirmed that he would leave the group.
Ju Haknyeon's departure from the group has caught a lot of attention. He and the agency have shared their statements ending his part in the group.
The statement said,
"Hello, this is One Hundred. We recently took action to suspend Ju Haknyeon’s activities as soon as we were informed that he was involved in a controversial incident in order to take time to thoroughly investigate and verify the facts. As a result of our investigation, we have recognized the severity of the issue and have taken it seriously. We have realized that it has become difficult to maintain our trust in him as an artist. Due to this, after sufficient discussions with the members of THE BOYZ, we have decided that Ju Haknyeon will be withdrawing from the group and that his exclusive contract will be terminated."
"We kindly ask for your understanding that this decision was an inevitable decision made to protect the members of THE BOYZ and the group as a whole," the label continued. "We are informing you that as of today, Ju Haknyeon will no longer be part of THE BOYZ and will cease all activities with the group. One Hundred Label will spare no effort in fully supporting the remaining members of THE BOYZ so that they can continue to promote in a healthy and stable state. Once again, we sincerely apologize for causing concern to the fans and we will do our best to repay the fans with better news and promotions in the future. Thank you."
THE BOYZ, which started as a twelve-member group in 2017, will move on with ten members now. The agency has said nothing about replacing him or changing the group’s upcoming plans.