In a major announcement that has sent ripples through the K-pop community, Belift Lab has confirmed that Heeseung, the eldest member and a key vocalist of the group ENHYPEN, will be departing from the team to pursue a solo career. The label confirmed that the group will continue as a six-member act moving forward.
On Tuesday, Belift Lab, a subsidiary of Hybe, released an official statement on social media revealing that after extensive discussions with the members, it was decided that Heeseung would part ways with the group to focus on his individual musical path.
“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 statement read. “As such, Heeseung will be parting ways with Enhypen.”
According to the label, Heeseung is already preparing a solo album and will remain under Belift Lab as a solo artist. ENHYPEN will continue all official activities as a six-member ensemble, now comprising Jungwon, Jay, Jake, Sunghoon, Sunoo, and Ni-ki.
Heeseung’s Heartfelt Letter to ENGENE
Shortly after the announcement, Heeseung took to the group’s Weverse community to share a personal message with fans, addressing the news with sincerity and gratitude.
“The six years I’ve spent have been filled with moments so overwhelming and precious that it’s hard to fully put them into words,” he wrote. “Thanks to the members who shared countless emotions with me and to all of you ENGENE who always filled every empty space with your support, I was able to take step after step toward a dream that once felt impossible to reach. That time will remain one of the shining moments in my life that I’ll never forget.”
He continued, addressing the timing and circumstances of his decision: “While sharing the results of my work so far with the company, I’ve spent a long time discussing and deliberating with many people about the best way to present it to you. After much deep thought over a long period, I’ve made a big decision to follow the direction the company suggested, in order to approach you ENGENEs in an even better form.”
Acknowledging the emotional weight of the news, he added, “I know about your worries and all the various stories out there. I’m working hard to prepare so I can meet you all again as soon as possible. Since you’ve always given endless love and affection to someone as imperfect as me, I can understand why you’re feeling shocked and worried, and that makes me feel deeply sorry.”
He closed the letter with a promise to his fans: “I’ll keep the immense love you’ve given me all this time engraved in my heart and run forward as that person. ENGENE! Thank you, and I love you.”
From I-LAND to Solo Stardom
Heeseung rose to prominence as a trainee under Belift Lab before competing in the 2020 survival series I-LAND, a joint venture between Hybe and CJ ENM. As one of the most accomplished trainees in the lineup, he consistently ranked high throughout the show and ultimately secured his place in the final debut lineup of ENHYPEN.
Since their debut, ENHYPEN has grown into one of the leading fourth-generation K-pop groups, achieving significant commercial success. Their most recent release, The Sin: Vanish, debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard 200, further solidifying their global presence.
While the departure of a beloved member marks the end of an era for OT7 fans, the announcement signals a new beginning for both Heeseung and ENHYPEN. As Heeseung embarks on his solo journey and the remaining six members prepare for their next chapter, ENGENE will undoubtedly be watching and cheering every step of the way.
The Pop Blog general news and updates, mostly from press releases and conferences.