Following the departure of Lee Heeseung from ENHYPEN, the remaining members shared a heartfelt message with fans on X on Tuesday night, March 10.
In their statement, the group acknowledged that the sudden news of Heeseung’s exit may have shocked fans. They admitted that the situation has also been painful for them, especially knowing that their supporters were left worried and distressed.
“ENGENE, you were probably very surprised after seeing today’s announcement. The first thing we worried about was what ENGENE would think. Since ENHYPEN is a group that exists for ENGENE, seeing ENGENE worried or struggling is the most painful thing for us,” the statement read, according to the English translation.
The members also expressed their deep respect for Heeseung’s decision, highlighting the strong bond they built throughout their years together as a group.
“The time we have spent together until now is so precious that it's impossible to put into words. That's why we respect and support the choice and new beginning of our hyung Heeseung, who has spent all this time with us,” they added.
Despite the change, the group reassured fans that they will continue to move forward and grow as artists for their supporters.
“To ease ENGENE's worries even a little and to make each day a happy one for ENGENE, we, ENHYPEN, will continue to grow even more. So that we can become an ENHYPEN that our precious ENGENE, who always cheer for us and support us wherever they are, can always feel proud of, we will become stronger and never forget to be grateful at every moment,” the group said.
The message concluded with a note of gratitude for their fanbase: “We are always thankful, and we love you, ENGENE ❤️.”
Heeseung leaves ENHYPEN
Earlier on Tuesday, the group’s agency, Belift Lab, confirmed that Heeseung would be leaving ENHYPEN after discussions with the members and management regarding the group’s future direction.
“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 agency said in a statement posted on X.
“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.
Heeseung debuted with ENHYPEN in 2020 after gaining recognition through the survival program I-LAND, which formed the globally popular K-pop group.