ENHYPEN main vocalist Heeseung is leaving the group to pursue a solo career.
The K-pop group's label BELIFT LAB made the announcement on Tuesday (March 10) via socials, explaining to ENGENE (the group's fan base) that the eldest member is currently working on a solo album for the label and that the "decision comes after extensive deliberation."
“BELIFT LAB has given much thought and consideration into ENHYPEN's future direction and goals. Through in-depth discussions with each of the members about the future they envision and the direction of the team, it became clear that HEESEUNG has his own distinct musical vision and we have decided to respect it.”
The label added that ENHYPEN will "continue official activities henceforth as a group of six members." And that the announcement came as a surprise to everyone.
"We understand that this news is a lot to process and may be received with mixed reactions," the statement adds. "Nevertheless, we hope you understand that this decision was made for the future of ENHYPEN and HEESEUNG. ENHYPEN remains committed to sharing energetic performances with ENGENE. We ask for ENGENE's continued love and support for ENHYPEN and HEESEUNG as they start a new chapter of their journey."
Heeseung also made a statement to ENGENE on the Weverse platform, giving more clarity to fans about his decision to leave.
"First of all, I know many ENGENEs must have been surprised to hear my news, and I imagine this sudden message may have left you with many questions. That’s why I wanted to speak to you directly," he wrote (translated in English). "The past six years have been filled with moments that are difficult to put into words — moments that were overwhelmingly meaningful, and incredibly precious to me. Sharing so many emotions with the members, and having ENGENEs always there to support us, helped me move closer, step by step, to a dream that once felt out of reach. I truly believe none of this would have been possible without you."
"Those memories will remain some of the most shining and unforgettable moments of my life," he continued. "I will never forget them, and I want to continue supporting ENHYPEN as someone who will always cheer them on. Over time, I shared the work I had been creating with the company, and we spent a long time discussing with many people how it might best be presented. After thinking deeply about it for a long time, I ultimately made a big decision in line with the direction that was discussed, in hopes of returning to you in a better way."
He then discussed why going solo was the right choice for his career right now.
"As many of you know, I have continued working on personal projects, dedicating a lot of time to them with the hope that one day I could share them with you," he explained. "There were so many things I wanted to show you, but at the same time, I didn’t want my own ambitions to come before the team. I’m aware of the concerns and many conversations surrounding this, and I’m working hard to prepare so I can meet you again soon. My sincere hope is to return to you with an even better version of myself."
The 24-year-old then signed off, sharing his appreciation for all of the love and support he has received from fans.
"ENGENEs have always shown endless love and support to someone who still has so much to learn, and because I know how surprising and worrying this news may feel, I also feel truly sorry. At the same time, I understand that these feelings come from how much you care about me. I will carry the love ENGENEs have given me in my heart as I move forward. ENGENEs, thank you, and I love you."
News of Heeseung's departure comes just two months after ENHYPEN released their seventh EP, The Sin: Vanish. According to member Sunghoon, the group expect to announce a tour later this year, making their debut as a six-piece.
[NOTICE] ENHYPEN's Future Activities
— ENHYPEN OFFICIAL (@ENHYPEN) March 10, 2026
Hello, this is BELIFT LAB.
We would like to express our gratitude toward ENGENE for their unwavering support for ENHYPEN and provide information on ENHYPEN's future activities.
BELIFT LAB has given much thought and consideration into…