The B (THE BOYZ fandom) has a lot to process with the latest rumors surrounding the members. A couple of days earlier, member Ju Haknyeon went on hiatus for personal reasons. On Wednesday, June 18, the 26-year-old singer was embroiled in a prostitution scandal, and his departure from THE BOYZ was officially announced by label ONE HUNDRED.
Reports indicate that an official from the agency involved in prostitution-related incidents was also fired. Fans remain in shock and are struggling to come to terms with both his departure and the serious allegations against him.
Here is everything you need to know about the Ju Haknyeon controversy that led to his departure from THE BOYZ.
What Happened in Tokyo?
Recently, Japanese media outlet Shukan Bunshun reported that Ju Haknyeon, a member of the popular K-pop group THE BOYZ, was seen visiting a private bar in Tokyo last month. According to the report, he was spotted spending time closely with Asuka Kirara, a former AV actress who is now working as an influencer. The news quickly gained attention, not just because of the meeting, but also due to claims that Ju Haknyeon allegedly offered her money to spend the night together.
According to Shukan Bunshun, he visited a bar in Roppongi on the night of May 29 with some Japanese acquaintances. Reports say he stayed drinking there until the early hours of the next morning alongside Asuka Kirara. It was also noted that they appeared physically close, as the former THE BOYZ member was seen hugging her, and Asuka Kirara resting her chin on his shoulder.
Who Is Asuka Kirara?
Born in October 1988, Asuka Kirara debuted as an AV actress in 2007 and officially retired in 2020. Since then, she has successfully built a career as a social media influencer and public figure in Japan.
Before her debut, Kirara Asuka worked as a waitress at a hostess club in Roppongi. She was scouted by an adult video company representative who visited the club as a guest.
THE BOYZ’s Response and Ju Jaknyeon’s Departure
Just hours after the news broke, Ju Haknyeon’s agency, ONE HUNDRED, confirmed that he would be leaving THE BOYZ following serious discussions with the team.
The agency released a statement saying they took the issue seriously and realized it would be difficult to maintain public trust. They apologized to fans, stating that his departure was an unavoidable decision made to protect the team.
The label stated
As soon as we were informed of issues involving Ju Haknyeon’s private life, our company immediately suspended his activities and took time to thoroughly verify the facts.
As a result, we have come to recognize the seriousness of this issue and have clearly determined that it is no longer possible for us to maintain trust in him as an artist. After sufficient discussions with the members of THE BOYZ, we have made the final decision for Ju Haknyeon to depart the team and terminate his exclusive contract.
We ask for your deep understanding as this decision was an unavoidable measure to protect the members and the team. We would like to inform you that, as of today, Ju Haknyeon will cease all activities as a member of THE BOYZ.
ONE HUNDRED
Under Korean law, anyone involved in prostitution can face up to one year in prison or a fine of up to 3 million won, as stated in Article 21 of the ‘Act on the Punishment of Acts of Arranging Prostitution, etc.’ This law also applies to acts of prostitution committed overseas.
Following the controversy, Ju Haknyeon’s contract with his agency was terminated on June 18. He officially withdrew from THE BOYZ the same day, and the group will continue with ten members.