U-KISS will continued on as normal, according to its agency, despite the news of Eli's marriage and impending addition to his family.
Over the weekend, U-KISS's leader Soohyun and agency NH Media updated fans on the situation following a surprising Instagram post from member Ellison "Eli" Kim. The official position declared that Eli will remain in the group moving forward.
According to NH Media, they company was aware of Eli's marriage but didn't make an announcement due to Eli's fears that he may affect the careers of other U-KISS members and the entertainment agency as a whole.
"Eli's prearranged schedule will move on as usual including shooting for Korean-Chinese film and other overseas schedules," said the announcement from NH Media, reported the K-Pop Herald.
Following NH Media's statement, Eli also took to Twitter and apologized to his fans and members for causing them any hurt and trouble. He reiterated that he does not "have one regret."
Eli and his wife dated for five years before getting married last June. Due to concerns related to U-KISS's career, Eli and his wife did not hold an official wedding ceremony.
There is an 11-year age difference between the two, and Eli's wife previously worked as a model but is taking a break due to her pregnancy.
According to Eli's original post, his wife is currently three months' pregnant.
Members of U-KISS took to Twitter to express their feelings.
Leader Soohyun began his tweet with an apology.
"We are sorry to surprise you with this unexpected news. It's heartbreaking to think of how difficult it must have been for Eli to keep the news, not having the courage to speak out in public," wrote Soohyun.
"I hope you support Eli as well as the baby who is soon to be born. Our group will be the same as usual despite this occasion, and we will focus on communication with fans. I am sincerely sorry as the leader of U-KISS."
Kevin also took to Twitter.
"I respect Eli's decision as a member and a friend," he wrote on Sunday. "Marriage should not be something to be ashamed of or hidden. If you truly care for him and U-KISS please show support. Congratulations Eli."
U-KISS is currently promoting mostly in Japan.
Tamar Herman is a multi-media journalist and the co-founder of KultScene. She is a freelance writer and copy editor, and has written for MTV Iggy, Noisey, and Paste Magazine.
