Heeseung is leaving the K-pop Enhypen and will be pursuing a solo career.
The announcement was made on Tuesday, March 10, by Belift Lab, Hybe’s sub-label, which said that after “much thought and consideration” into Enhypen’s goals and discussions with each member “about the future they envision,” it became clear that Heeseung has “his own distinct musical vision and we have decided to respect it.”
Enhypen will continue as a six-member act and Heeseung will be working on a solo album under Belift Lab. In his own statement, Heeseung addressed his departure in a message to the group’s loyal fandom, Engene, on Weverse.
“I know many ENGENEs must have been surprised to hear my news, and I imagine this sudden message may have left you with many questions. That’s why I wanted to speak to you directly,” he wrote in his statement (translated from Korean).
He continued, “Sharing so many emotions with the members, and having ENGENEs always there to support us, helped me move closer, step by step, to a dream that once felt out of reach. I truly believe none of this would have been possible without you.” While he is entering a new era, the star emphasized that he wants “to continue supporting ENHYPEN as someone who will always cheer them on.”
He continued, “Over time, I shared the work I had been creating with the company, and we spent a long time discussing with many people how it might best be presented. After thinking deeply about it for a long time, I ultimately made a big decision in line with the direction that was discussed, in hopes of returning to you in a better way.”
The artist said that he has been working on personal projects and hopes to one day share them with fans. “There were so many things I wanted to show you, but at the same time, I didn’t want my own ambitions to come before the team,” Heeseung said, acknowledging the concerns and conversations surrounding his decision. He added: “My sincere hope is to return to you with an even better version of myself.”
Before ending his letter, Heeseung once again acknowledged the impact his fans have had on him throughout his career. “ENGENEs have always shown endless love and support to someone who still has so much to learn, and because I know how surprising and worrying this news may feel, I also feel truly sorry,” he said. “At the same time, I understand that these feelings come from how much you care about me. I will carry the love ENGENEs have given me in my heart as I move forward.”
Heeseung’s departure marks the first lineup change for Enhypen since its debut as a group in 2020 after being formed through the competition show, I-Land. The group’s latest project, mini album The Sin : Vanish, released in January.
