Male K-Pop Idol Suspends Activities Following Attitude Controversies
A male K-Pop idol has decided to temporarily suspend activities amid a character controversy.
ALPHA DRIVE ONE’s agency, Wake One, issued an official statement on the 8th, saying, “We deeply apologize to fans who have cherished and supported ALPHA DRIVE ONE for our delayed response. Our company is responsible for supporting our artists so they can focus on their activities in a stable environment, and for managing them to uphold the basic attitudes and standards required as artists. However, we feel a heavy responsibility for failing to fully carry this out.”
The agency explained in detail the facts related to Kim Geonwoo’s remarks raised online. “This issue occurred at a content filming site before their debut. At that time, Kim Geonwoo, unaware that his microphone was still on, expressed dissatisfaction using inappropriate language. The remarks were not directed as criticism or personal attacks toward any individual but were spoken aloud to himself. Nevertheless, it was an inappropriate remark under any circumstances,” they acknowledged.
They continued, “We sincerely apologize once again to the staff at the site who may have felt uncomfortable. We also deeply apologize for causing concern to our fans.” The agency bowed their head and stated, “Immediately after the incident, Kim Geonwoo apologized to the production team, and we judged the matter was resolved through mutual communication. Considering that further statements might impose additional burdens or inconvenience on the production team, we chose not to make any separate public statement.”
Recently, as various communities and social media outlets have seen continued revelations from broadcasting staff regarding Kim Geonwoo’s character, public attention has intensified on the veracity of these claims, the agency’s response, and Kim Geonwoo’s reaction.
However, the agency clarified, “Several allegations that differ from the facts have been raised. The process of verifying each claim took time, delaying our statement. Apart from the incident in question, the other allegations currently circulating online are not true. We ask that everyone refrain from indiscriminately spreading unconfirmed information.” They emphasized, “Nevertheless, it was clearly a lack of judgment on our part not to provide a timely explanation.”
Alongside this, the agency also conveyed Kim Geonwoo’s current status. “Kim Geonwoo is deeply reflecting on this matter,” they said. “After discussions with our company, Kim Geonwoo has decided to take time for self-reflection. Accordingly, he will not participate in upcoming planned activities and fan concerts. For the time being, ALPHA DRIVE ONE will continue activities as a seven-member group excluding Kim Geonwoo. However, we ask for your understanding that broadcasts and some content filmed and produced prior to the suspension may be released according to the planned schedule.”
Finally, the agency stated, “We are reviewing our communication methods both internally and externally, as well as our artist management system. We will thoroughly examine the areas where we were lacking, reinforce related standards and management systems, and improve our response processes so that future guidance will be more prompt and responsible. Additionally, we will continuously enhance education and support for our artists to prevent similar cases from recurring.”
They added, “ALPHA DRIVE ONE is a team moving forward toward a shared dream. As an agency, we will make greater efforts to ensure that all members can work in a stable environment. We ask for your warm support and interest from our fans.”
