A Tumultuous Year for K-Pop: Idols Leaving Groups
It’s been quite a year in K-Pop, especially regarding idols leaving groups. An online community post recently went viral after listing how many idols have left groups so far, sparking widespread discussion among fans. It’s truly been a period of significant shifts, leaving many with heavy hearts and mixed emotions.
January’s First Farewell
January kicked off the year with a notable departure: BAE173’s Hangyul left the group and agency after his 10-year exclusive contract ended on February 28, 2026. This news, while often part of contract negotiations, still came as a surprise to many fans.
March: New Solo Beginnings
March brought another significant change. On March 10, 2026, ENHYPEN’s Heeseung left the group to begin his solo career as EVAN. Fans are now eagerly anticipating his new chapter and what his distinct sound will bring to the industry.
April’s Monumental Departure
April saw one of the biggest headlines: On April 8, Mark Lee officially left all NCT units and SM Entertainment after his contract ended. This marked a monumental shift for both NCTzens and the broader K-Pop landscape, signaling the end of an era for many.
May: Prioritizing Health
May presented a somber update for USPEER fans. On May 6, MW Entertainment announced that USPEER’s Yeowon would leave the group after her health hiatus. The industry continues to prioritize idol well-being, and fans consistently send their support during these difficult times.
June: Another Solo Transition
June continued the trend of members transitioning to solo endeavors. On June 30, it was revealed that YOUNITE’s Eunsang would officially leave the group and transition into a solo artist. We’re excited to see his growth as an independent artist.
July: NCT Sees Another Departure
July brought another major departure from SM Entertainment. On July 9, Winwin officially left NCT and SM Entertainment after his contract ended. This was another significant moment for NCTzens, following closely after Mark Lee’s departure.
August’s Double Shock: THE BOYZ and Xdinary Heroes
August has been particularly challenging for fans. On August 6, it was announced that member New officially left THE BOYZ. The sudden news left many THE B wondering about the group’s future dynamic.
Tragically, August wasn’t over yet. On August 13, JYP Entertainment terminated Xdinary Heroes member Gunil’s contract due to his recent controversies online. This served as a stark reminder of the intense scrutiny idols face and the serious implications of online behavior.
Looking Ahead: Hopes for Stability
With so many changes already behind us, fans across the globe are collectively holding their breath. Hopefully, we won’t be seeing any more departures for the rest of the year! We wish all idols, both those who remain and those embarking on new paths, the very best.
