Hwarang has officially left TEMPEST, according to an official statement from his agency, Yuehua Entertainment.

The announcement follows widespread attention and criticism surrounding his appearance at a club, which gained significant attention within the K-pop community in 2024. 

A post shared by instagram

On August 11, Yuehua Entertainment released an official statement announcing the departure of TEMPEST member Hwarang. The decision was made after discussions between the idol and the company regarding his future with the group. 

The agency thanked fans for supporting Hwarang and kindly asked for their encouragement, as the idol embarks on a new chapter.

Yuehua Entertainment also stated that they will take legal action against those spreading false information and speculation.

Read the full statement below:

"Hello. This is Yuehua Entertainment.

We would like to inform you about the future activities of TEMPEST and Hwarang.

We have been holding thorough meetings with Hwarang regarding his future schedule and career path. After careful consideration, we mutually agreed to conclude his activities in TEMPEST and terminate his exclusive contract.

We would like to express our gratitude to everyone who has supported Hwarang in his journey. We ask for your continued support for his upcoming endeavors and we will also do our best to support his future as well.

We plan to take strong action against individuals who spread misinformation and speculations about our artists. We ask for your interest and love for TEMPEST, who will be greeting fans through 'Road to Kingdom.'

Thank you."

Following the announcement, online discussions emerged in an online forum, with fans and netizens sharing their reactions to Hwarang's departure. 

Some comments read:

• "Do you really think they'd withdraw him just for going to the club? Of course, there must've been something that happened for this."
• "I'm sure it's not the clubbing, there must be another reason."
• "Rookies are allowed to go to the club, this is a bit too harsh."
• "This is way too extreme, and it didn't even make news."
• "Even K-Netz are agreeing that kicking out a member for going to a club is too much."

In February, rumors spread on X (Twitter) that Hwarang was seen at a club with other idols. Initially met with skepticism, it was confirmed when Yuehua apologized on behalf of Hwarang and stated that he had expressed regret in going to the club.

"We would like to apologize to all the fans who were left worried by Hwarang's behavior and actions," the agency said in a statement. "The contents disseminated over social media are far from the truth."

Yuehua added, "Hwarang has regretted visiting the club. To prevent similar incidents in the future, he has decided not to repeat this behavior."

In March, Yuehua declared Hwarang's temporary hiatus, which led TEMPEST to carry out its fifth mini album "TEMPEST Voyage" promotions as a six-membered group.

What are your thoughts on Hwarang's departure? Share your views in the comments below. 

For more K-pop news and updates, keep your tabs open here at KpopStarz.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: THIS 4th-Gen K-pop Boy Group Member Apologizes for Clubbing - See Official Statement Here

KpopStarz owns this article

Written by Israel Monte