Popular K-pop group ENHYPEN has become a hot topic after one of the seven members, Lee Heeseung, announced his departure from the group. An official statement claimed he left to pursue a solo music career under the same label, BELIFT LAB. However, many fans – known as ENGENE – suspect there may be more to the story.
In addition to Heeseung, ENHYPEN consists of six other members: Jay, Jake, Sunoo, Sunghoon, Jungwon, and Ni-ki. The group was formed in 2020 through the survival show I-LAND, where contestants competed for a spot in the final lineup. They officially debuted on November 30, 2020, with their album BORDER: DAY ONE. Since then, the group has gained international attention for exploring themes of youth and identity, often incorporating a vampire-inspired concept into their performances and music.
Since the announcement on March 10, fans have been divided over the decision and its sincerity . Some are frustrated, pointing out that other groups, such as BTS and TOMORROW X TOGETHER, allow members to pursue solo projects while remaining active in the group. Others argue that fans should show support for Heeseung’s solo career and that the backlash is unnecessary.
Fans have expressed their opinions through protests, boycotts, and petitions. As of April 4, a petition on Change.org calling for his return has reached over 2 million signatures. Protest trucks and signs have also been seen outside the company’s headquarters, displaying messages such as “Bring Back Heeseung” and “ENHYPEN is 7.”
In addition, many fans have posted similar messages across ENHYPEN’s social media platforms and live stream comment sections. During a recent live broadcast, leader Jungwon directly asked fans to stop spamming “number games” (debates over 6 vs. 7 members) in the comments. He requested that only true ENGENEs participate, expressing discomfort with the constant fixation on numerical member discussions.
BELIFT LAB has taken steps following the announcement. On March 27, Heeseung’s profile was deactivated from the fan platform Weverse. On March 31, ENHYPEN announced their “Blood Saga” tour, featuring promotional material that included only six members. Additional updates indicated changes to the group’s fan chant, which previously included Heeseung’s name.
As of now, the remaining members have not publicly commented on the situation. While some fans continue to protest and hope for his return, others are beginning to accept the change. The situation has sparked widespread discussion across the K-pop community and drawn attention beyond ENGENE, leaving many waiting to see how the group and its management will move forward in the coming months
