On June 18, 2025, Ju Haknyeon, a member of the popular K-pop group THE BOYZ, officially departed from the group and terminated his exclusive contract with their agency, ONE HUNDRED. The announcement came after a controversy involving the singer’s private life, which the agency deemed serious enough to end their professional relationship.
ONE HUNDRED released a detailed statement explaining the situation. They said that as soon as they were informed about issues related to Ju Haknyeon’s personal life, they immediately suspended his activities to conduct a thorough investigation. "We have come to recognize the seriousness of this issue and have clearly determined that it is no longer possible for us to maintain trust in him as an artist," the agency stated. After extensive discussions with the other members of THE BOYZ, the decision was made that Ju Haknyeon would withdraw from the group and terminate his contract, a move described as an unavoidable measure to protect the members and the team.
Ju Haknyeon himself addressed the controversy in a handwritten apology, denying the more damaging rumors circulating in the media. He acknowledged attending a private gathering with alcohol on May 30, 2025, but firmly denied engaging in any illegal activity such as prostitution. He wrote, "Hello. This is Ju Haknyeon. First, I apologise to the fans who must have been greatly shocked by the news about me, as well as everyone whom I gave cause for concern through this unsavory matter. In the wee hours of the morning of May 30, 2025, I attended a private gathering with alcohol together with an acquaintance, and while it is true that I was at that gathering, it is completely false that I engaged in any illegal activity, such as the prostitution that is being mentioned in news reports and rumors. I am deeply reflecting on my actions, and I would like to sincerely apologize to everyone who was shocked by this [matter]."
The controversy began when Japanese media outlet Shukan Bunshun sent a letter of inquiry to THE BOYZ’s agency, seeking clarification about Ju Haknyeon’s private meeting with former Japanese adult video (AV) actress Asuka Kirara in May 2025. News1, a Korean news outlet, reported that the meeting took place at a bar in Roppongi, Tokyo, on May 29, 2025, where Ju Haknyeon and his acquaintances spent the night drinking. Photographs and reports suggested a close interaction between Ju Haknyeon and Asuka Kirara, including moments where he hugged her and she rested her chin on his shoulder.
ONE HUNDRED confirmed receiving the inquiry from Shukan Bunshun and said they had verified the details with Ju Haknyeon. The agency’s investigation into the matter led to their conclusion that the situation was serious enough to jeopardize trust in him as an artist, prompting the suspension of his activities on June 16, 2025, and ultimately his departure two days later.
Ju Haknyeon, born in 1999, first gained public attention as a contestant on Mnet’s "Produce 101" Season 2 before debuting with THE BOYZ in 2017. The group quickly rose to prominence in the K-pop scene, known for their energetic performances and dedicated fanbase. His sudden exit marks a significant shift for the group, which now faces the challenge of continuing without one of its original members.
The agency expressed their commitment to supporting the remaining members of THE BOYZ, stating they would do their utmost to ensure the group continues their activities in a stable and healthy environment. "One Hundred will spare no effort and support so that the remaining members of The Boyz can continue to work healthy without shaking in the future," the agency said.
The decision to part ways with Ju Haknyeon reflects the intense scrutiny K-pop idols face over their personal lives, where any controversy can quickly impact their careers and the reputation of their groups. Agencies often take swift action to protect their artists and maintain public trust, even if it means making difficult decisions like terminating contracts.
Fans of THE BOYZ have been left shocked and saddened by the news. The agency apologized for causing concern and promised to repay fans with improved news and activities moving forward. The incident also highlights the complex relationship between celebrities’ private actions and their public personas in the highly competitive and image-conscious K-pop industry.
Asuka Kirara, the former AV actress involved in the controversy, debuted in 2007 and retired from the adult film industry in 2020. Since then, she has transitioned into an influencer role, maintaining a public presence outside of her previous career. The meeting between Ju Haknyeon and Kirara has drawn significant media attention, partly due to her past and the cultural sensitivities surrounding such associations in South Korea.
In summary, Ju Haknyeon’s departure from THE BOYZ on June 18, 2025, follows a controversy stemming from his private meeting with a former Japanese AV actress and related rumors. Despite his denial of illegal conduct, the agency concluded that trust could no longer be maintained, leading to his contract termination and exit from the group. The remaining members and their agency now face the task of moving forward while managing the fallout from this incident.
