Member Jo Hyun-kyun of the group The Boyz shocked fans by announcing his resignation from the team and the termination of his exclusive contract just two days after declaring a hiatus from activities. The background for the agency's drastic measures stemmed from a controversy regarding his private meeting with a former Japanese adult video actress. Meanwhile, with the addition of allegations of prostitution, the shock has intensified, although Jo Hyun-kyun denied these claims.
On the 16th, the agency, One Hundred, conveyed the sudden news stating, "Jo Hyun-kyun is temporarily suspending his activities due to personal reasons." At that time, no specific reasons were disclosed, leading to various speculations among fans, with many assuming it could be due to health issues or the need for personal rest.
However, two days later, on the 18th, reports from Japanese media revealed that Jo Hyun-kyun had engaged in intimate behavior with former adult video actress Asuka Kirara at a drinking party held in Roppongi, Japan, at the end of last month, causing the controversy to escalate uncontrollably. As hugs and the other person resting their chin on his shoulder became public knowledge, voices among fans expressing disappointment and feelings of betrayal increased.
In response, the agency took the severity of the situation seriously and decided to terminate Jo Hyun-kyun's contract and his departure from the team, stating, "Protecting the team The Boyz and the remaining members is the top priority." One Hundred revealed through an official statement, "After immediately suspending activities as soon as the issue of private life arose, we carefully verified the facts," and added, "We judged that it was difficult to maintain trust as an artist and made this decision after sufficient discussions with the members."
Such rapid actions and firm decisions are considered unprecedented in the K-pop industry. Generally, cases often choose to withdraw for a certain period before returning; however, in this case, they opted for a strong response from the outset, taking into account its impact and public opinion.
The agency formalized, "This decision is an unavoidable measure to ensure the stability of the team's overall activities and to protect the established image of The Boyz," adding that "Jo Hyun-kyun will cease all activities as of today." They also assured fans, "We will spare no support from the company level so that the remaining members can carry on their activities without disturbance," urging them to continue their unwavering support for The Boyz.
However, a few hours later that evening, allegations of prostitution were mentioned. However, regarding the additional allegations of prostitution, One Hundred has not issued a separate statement on the matter. In this context, OSEN inquired with One Hundred for a further statement, but no response has been received. In the meantime, Jo Hyun-kyun himself directly posted on social media, firmly denying the related allegations, saying, "While it is true that I was at a drinking party with acquaintances, there were absolutely no 'prostitution' or illegal activities as mentioned in articles or rumors." Attention is focused on whether the agency will also provide a further statement regarding this.
Meanwhile, Jo Hyun-kyun gained attention after debuting through Mnet's "Produce 101 Season 2" in 2017, becoming popular within The Boyz and securing a fan base both domestically and internationally. However, due to unexpected personal controversies leading to the end of his activities, fans are expressing mixed reactions of shock and regret.
[OSEN]