‘I'm scared': Ju Haknyeon says he never left THE BOYZ, to file criminal lawsuit against agency for demanding money over ‘false' prostitution case
2025 was supposed to be the year for K-pop group THE BOYZ—a breakthrough era. But instead, the group is marred with controversies one after another. The first to take the hit was Ju Haknyeon, whose alleged connection to Japanese adult video actor Kirara Asuka led to his removal from the group. The agency released a statement saying they no longer represent him. But according to Ju, he never left the group, and the contract was never officially terminated. In fact, he claims the agency demanded money for damages. He also slammed media reports and viral claims linking him to prostitution, calling them baseless and defamatory. A day earlier, Ju was reported to the police by an anonymous tipster in Gangnam for allegedly violating South Korea's Article 4 of the Act on the Punishment of Arranging Sexual Traffic.
Also read: THE BOYZ controversy explained: Ju Haknyeon reported to police after group exit over alleged prostitution; CEO issues apology
In a lengthy statement released on June 20, Ju said he's taking legal action, both civil and criminal, against the agency and media outlets that spread false claims or linked him to prostitution without proof. 'I want to hold the agency accountable for kicking me out without reason. And I'll go all the way to reveal the truth. I hope this gives someone out there a little hope.' The boy band member insisted he never left the group in the first place. Despite clearly stating he was never involved in prostitution or any illegal acts, the company is spinning it like there's cause for termination. 'If there is evidence of prostitution, please disclose it to me immediately. Also, I have never left the team and have never agreed to the termination of my exclusive contract.'
According to Ju, his agency ONE HUNDRED, allegedly demanded compensation of over ₩200 million KRW (about $145,000 USD) before asking him to leave. He said he never agreed to the terms, yet they rushed to announce it in the press. 'I want to ask whether the agency's attitude of trying to unilaterally remove me from the group just because I was with a famous person in a private setting is the attitude of an agency that should be protecting the artist.'
Also read: BTS loses brand value ranking to K-pop's rising superstars despite major military comeback in June: Check out the Top 20
Ju claimed that when he refused to sign the termination contract, he was sent a notice by mail stating that it was all his fault. He added, 'Honestly, I am really scared. But if I give up here, this society might become a place where people who have nothing can fall for things they didn't do.' The singer said he waited long for the truth to come out, alluding to his recent hiatus, where the agency cited personal reasons behind his absence. 'However, when someone attempts to bury people under the pretext of something that didn't happen, I can no longer remain silent.'
ONE Hundred earlier apologised to fans and said the group will now continue as a 10-member act. 'We sincerely apologise for the recent events involving our artists and staff. We humbly accept our responsibility and reflect deeply on our lack of oversight.' Police are now investigating the case. There's a report filed against Haknyeon connected to the prostitution angle, though nothing has been confirmed yet
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