Seunghan’s Exit From RIIZE Sparks Solidarity As K-Pop Stores Halt Merchandise Restocks To Support BRIIZE!

Seunghan’s sudden exit from RIIZE has sparked a massive wave of reactions, especially among international fans, or “BRIIZE.” Since SM Entertainment's announcement, fans worldwide have been protesting against what they believe is a highly unjust decision. Many K-pop stans have shown their displeasure by unfollowing RIIZE on social media and flooding the internet with trending hashtags. This ongoing boycott has now extended beyond just fans—K-pop stores have joined the movement, refusing to restock RIIZE’s albums and merchandise in support of Seunghan. The boycott has amplified a broader conversation about the pressures placed on K-pop idols to meet impossible standards of “perfection.” Seunghan's exit has become a flashpoint in discussions about toxic cancel culture and bullying within the industry, with fans determined to hold SM Entertainment accountable. Several major K-pop shops across the US, France, and other countries have shown solidarity with fans.  RIIZE’s Seunghan Quits the K-Pop Group Just 2 Days After Confirming His Return, Shares Handwritten Note and Pens ‘Leaving Might Be Best for Everyone’.

Popular stores like SubK Shop, EvePink, LightUpK, and Stardust K-pop Shop have all announced that they would stop restocking RIIZE products, with SubK Shop releasing a statement expressing respect for both the artist and the fans in light of recent events. Although existing orders will be fulfilled, they have decided to reevaluate future sales as the situation evolves.

K-Pop Stores Stand With BRIIZE As Seunghan Leaves RIIZE, Halting All Merchandise Restocks!

Seunghan’s departure comes after he was embroiled in controversy over leaked pre-debut photos and videos, where he was seen smoking and spending time with girls. This led to a 10-month hiatus imposed by SM Entertainment, during which he stepped away from group activities. Although the label announced his return on October 11, backlash from local Korean fans swiftly followed, including the unreasonable gesture of sending funeral wreaths. Despite international fans rallying behind him, SM Entertainment reversed its decision within two days, announcing that Seunghan would no longer be a part of RIIZE. Fans have taken to social media, hoping that their boycott will force the label to reconsider and reinstate Seunghan as part of the original seven-member line-up.

He Is Bullied

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Seunghan’s Handwritten Farewell to RIIZE

In a heartfelt handwritten letter, Seunghan addressed his departure from RIIZE following Wizard Production’s announcement on October 13. This news arrived merely two days after fans were informed of his return to the group, marking a surprising and emotional turn of events for both him and his supporters.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 16, 2024 09:20 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).