MANILA, Philippines — South Korean singer and dancer Heeseung shared a heartfelt message to fans after leaving the K-pop group Enhypen, describing his six years with the group as “moments that were overwhelming and precious beyond words” as he prepares for a new chapter as a solo artist.
The singer posted a handwritten letter on the group’s Weverse page on Tuesday, addressing fans known as Engene and acknowledging the surprise surrounding the announcement of his departure.
“First of all, I know many Engene must have been very surprised to hear this news about me, and I imagine many of you have questions because due to the sudden news. That's why I wanted to speak to Engene directly,” he wrote.
Heeseung reflected on the journey he shared with his fellow members and supporters since the group’s debut, saying the experience helped him pursue a dream that once felt out of reach.
“The six ears I've spent have been filled with moments so overwhelming and precious that it's hard to fully put them into words. Thanks to the members who shared countless emotions with me and to all of you Engene who always filled every empty space with your support, I was able to take step after step toward a dream that once felt impossible to reach,” he wrote.
He added that the memories he created with the group would remain among the most meaningful moments of his life.
“I will never forget those moments, and I want to continue being someone who supports Enhypen more than anyone else,” he said.
Heeseung also acknowledged fans’ concerns over the sudden news.
“I'm well aware of your concerns and the many things being said. I'm working hard to prepare so that I can meet you again as soon as possible. My desire to come back and greet you with a better version of myself is completely sincere,” he wrote.
Belift Lab, the group’s agency and a subsidiary label under Hybe Corporation, confirmed that Heeseung will be parting ways with Enhypen following discussions about the group’s future direction and the artist’s individual musical vision.
The agency also said Heeseung will remain under Belift Lab and is preparing a solo album while Enhypen continues activities with the remaining members.
“Through in-depth discussions with each of the members about the future they envision and the direction of the team, it became clear that Heeseung has his own distinct musical vision and we have decided to respect it,” the company said in a statement.
“As such, Heeseung will be parting ways with Enhypen, and Enhypen will continue official activities henceforth as a group of six members,” the statement added.
Enhypen debuted on Nov. 30, 2020 after being formed through the survival competition show I-LAND. The group quickly rose to global popularity and became one of the leading acts of K-pop’s fourth generation.
Following the lineup change, Enhypen will continue as a six-member group composed of Jungwon, Jay, Jake, Sunghoon, Sunoo and Ni-ki.