New York: It happened overnight: fans noticed Ju Haknyeon missing from group schedules, and just two days later, on June 18, 2025, One Hundred Label confirmed he’d left THE BOYZ. It was a whirlwind of whispers, speculations, then that bombshell statement.
For some, it felt like déjà vu—another idol caught in a private moment that went public. But this wasn’t a dating rumor tucked away behind closed doors—this involved a former Japanese AV star, and that raised eyebrows, emotions, and a storm of online reactions.
Now, with the smoke clearing, here’s a human-centered breakdown of the incident, the agency’s response, its impact on THE BOYZ, and why it resonated so deeply with Gen Z and Millennial fandom culture.
What Happened in Tokyo: The Ju Haknyeon Controversy Explained
On May 29, 2025, Japanese outlet Shūkan Bunshun and News1 reported Ju Haknyeon had dinner and drinks at a Roppongi bar with Kirara Asuka, a former AV actress turned influencer, showing physical closeness—like her resting her chin on his shoulder.
That evening, which included friends and casual hugging, might have passed unnoticed—if not for viral photos and tabloid coverage. Within weeks, rumors swirled about a hiatus and an investigation by his agency.
How THE BOYZ’s Label Handled the Scandal
On June 16, One Hundred Label responded with a “temporary hiatus due to personal reasons,” raising eyebrows across fandoms.
Just two days later, on June 18, they issued a firm statement:
- Activities suspended, facts investigated
- Trust eroded—contract terminated
- Ju Haknyeon officially resigned from the group
- Remaining members supported, group continues
Impact on THE BOYZ: What This Means for the Group
THE BOYZ transitions from 11 to 10 members, joining the 2019 exit of Hwall. For fans (THE B fandom), this feels like losing a chapter: from comeback plans for “Unexpected” to coping with missing member dynamics. On the brighter side, the agency reassures continuity: vocal lines, choreography, and promotions will move forward seamlessly.
Also Read: BTS in 2025: Military Service Updates & Solo Projects
Why This Scandal Spurs Bigger Conversation
The public reaction spans empathy, confusion, and outrage. On r/kpop, one user commented:
“Leaving your group after just … meeting a porn star has to be a first for kpop. this is crazy”.
It shines a light on K‑pop’s unique culture—where private life, persona, and fan expectations form a fragile ecosystem. Cross-border encounters, AV stigma, and agency zero‑tolerance policies collide in a perfect storm.
What Comes Next for Ju Haknyeon and THE BOYZ
Ju Haknyeon’s future remains uncertain. With no public statement yet, he might pursue a quieter path—solo or entirely off‑stage.
THE BOYZ, however, is rallying. Their 2025 projects continue, and the agency promises mental and health support for the 10-member team. Military enlistments (Sangyeon), comebacks, and international tours are still in motion.
Ju Haknyeon’s departure underscores K‑pop’s high-wire balance between idol image, global privacy expectations, and cultural stigma. A single night in Tokyo—captured in tabloid photos—led to a ripple effect powerful enough to dismantle a contract and alter group dynamics forever.
