K-pop boy group The Boyz's core member Jo Hak-nyeon (26) has left the team disgracefully after 8 years since his debut. In addition to this, allegations of prostitution have surfaced, leading to the collapse of the tower of accomplishments he built up until now.

Previously, Jo Hak-nyeon appeared on the 2017 Mnet survival program "Produce 101 Season 2" and gained attention by finishing 19th. In December of the same year, he officially debuted as a part of the 11-member The Boyz and actively participated as the lead dancer and a sub-vocalist.

Besides his idol activities, he showcased his versatility by making his screen debut as the lead in the 2022 horror movie "Seoul Ghost Story," further establishing his position as an actor. The Boyz members also attended the premiere as a group to support his new venture.

However, there was a brake on his active activities due to issues regarding his private life. The agency, One Hundred, announced on June 16 that he would temporarily suspend his activities due to "personal circumstances," but did not specify the reasons. Among fans, sentiments of sadness and concern were mixed.

However, two days later, on June 18, reports emerged that Jo Hak-nyeon had a private meeting with former adult film actress Asuka Kirara at a private bar in Roppongi, Tokyo. Photos obtained by local media "Shūkan Bunshun" captured the two embracing or resting their chins on each other's shoulders in an intimate manner.

As soon as this controversy erupted, the agency began to verify the facts, stating, "We took the seriousness of the situation heavily. It is difficult to regain trust as an artist," and decided to terminate his exclusive contract and kick him out of the team. This decision to expel him in just two days has attracted attention.

Additionally, the same day, a media outlet mentioned allegations of prostitution, leading to disappointed reactions from fans and the public, such as "It's hard to believe" and "This is damaging to his image." Evaluations have continued that the tower of achievements he built as both an idol and an actor collapsed overnight.

The agency One Hundred stated, "We will fully support the remaining members of The Boyz so they can continue their activities without shaking," clarifying it was a measure to protect the team. Furthermore, they expressed their intention to apologize to fans and promised to repay them with better news with the remaining members in the future.

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