[OSENWORLD] Former THE BOYZ member Ju Haknyeon has broken his silence over allegations of soliciting prostitution during a private gathering in Tokyo, firmly denying any illegal activity and calling for the truth to come to light.
On June 19, Ju shared a handwritten apology on social media, addressing the rumors that fueled his sudden departure from the K-pop group.
“I want to make it clear: there was absolutely no prostitution, nor any illegal behavior,” he wrote. “I deeply regret the situation and sincerely apologize to those who were disappointed or shocked.”
The controversy began after Ju attended a late-night drinking session with acquaintances in Tokyo on May 30. Japanese tabloid Shukan Bunshun later reported that Ju was spotted at a private bar in Roppongi with former adult film actress and current influencer Asuka Kirara, allegedly engaging in light physical affection such as hugging and leaning on her shoulder.
Initially, Ju’s label ONEHUNDRED (a subsidiary of IST Entertainment) announced on June 16 that he would temporarily suspend activities due to personal matters. Just two days later, following Bunshun’s report, the agency confirmed his complete departure from the group, citing “serious concerns” over the incident and a “loss of public trust.”
“After careful internal review and discussion with the members, we came to the conclusion that Ju Haknyeon could no longer continue with THE BOYZ,” the agency said in an official statement.
The decision sparked backlash from fans, many of whom questioned whether the punishment matched the situation—especially in light of Ju’s insistence that nothing illegal occurred.
As rumors escalated to include prostitution allegations, ONEHUNDRED’s chairman, Cha Gawon of PIAC Group, issued an apology acknowledging shortcomings in the company’s management of artists’ personal conduct. He promised systemic changes, including stronger ethical training and internal oversight.
Ju’s public defense reflects his desire to clear his name and spark a broader conversation about how scandals are managed in the K-pop industry.
“What matters is the truth,” he emphasized in his letter.
Ju Haknyeon first gained public attention through Produce 101 Season 2 in 2017 before debuting as a member of THE BOYZ later that year. With his sudden departure now mired in conflicting narratives, fans are calling for transparency—and accountability on all sides.
/k_inside@osen.co.kr
