TEMPEST has announced that member Hwarang will be leaving the group, effective immediately.
Despite this lineup change, the group has confirmed that they will continue to promote and perform with a six-member lineup (Lew, Hanbin, Taerae, Hyuk, Eunchan, and Hyeonseop).
In March 2024, the 23-year-old idol suspended activities temporarily amid clubbing controversy. As a result, only 6 members of the group participated in the comeback activities of their 5th mini-album, TEMPEST Voyage.
On August 11, Yuehua Entertainment officially announced his departure, stating, “We have been having in-depth discussions with Hwarang regarding his future activities and career path. After careful consideration, we have mutually agreed to conclude his activities as a member of TEMPEST and terminate his exclusive contract with us.”
The entertainment agency announced legal action against people spreading misinformation, “We will respond strongly to the spread of false information and speculation about our artists, and we ask for your interest and love for TEMPEST, who will be introduced through ‘Road to Kingdom’.”
Hwarang’s withdrawal from TEMPEST follows a controversy in February, where he admitted to going to a club during a fan call. His hiatus was announced by the agency after he was unable to ‘regain trust’ and several issues related to his personal life came to light.
After a 5-month break, Hwarang’s contract has ended, and he is officially no longer a member of TEMPEST.