It’s not uncommon for popular and stable K-pop groups to experience member departures. Some idols leave due to health concerns, others step away for personal reasons or contract decisions, and a few are forced out due to rumors or controversy. Regardless of the circumstances, these exits often leave a lasting impact. Below are performances from former members before their departure, along with updates on where they are now.
Soon after the release of “HWAA,” Soojin departed from (G)I-DLE (now stylized as I-DLE) following school bullying accusations that were later debunked. She returned in 2023 as a soloist with her mini album "Agassy."
Shortly after “Follow,” Wonho left MONSTA X due to rumors involving drug use—which were later proven false. He relaunched his career as a soloist, debuting with the single "Open Mind."
LE SSERAFIM made waves with their debut, but just two weeks later, Kim Garam was removed from the group amid a school bullying scandal. While her exit was sudden, it's rumored she graduated from SOPA and enrolled in Dongguk University’s acting department.
NMIXX – FUNKY GLITTER CHRISTMAS
Just ten months after debuting with NMIXX, Jinni (now Jini) left both the group and her company for “personal reasons.” She reemerged as a soloist, debuting with "C'MON" from her mini album 'An Iron Hand In A Velvet Glove.'
In 2022, Mashiho and Yedam exited TREASURE—Mashiho for health reasons, and Yedam to focus on music production. Yedam debuted in 2023 with his mini album "Only One," while Mashiho followed in 2024 with "Just The 2 Of Us."
After more than a decade with APINK, Son Naeun left the group in 2022 to focus on her acting career. Though she initially promised to remain involved, she ultimately stepped away due to scheduling conflicts and career direction.
Hwall departed THE BOYZ in October 2019 due to health concerns and eventually left the company. In 2020, he made his solo debut under the name Hur Hyunjun with "Baragi."
In 2019, Woojin left Stray Kids and JYP Entertainment due to personal reasons. His sudden departure delayed the group’s comeback as they re-recorded tracks. Though he was later caught in a scandal, it was denied by his agency 10x Entertainment. He debuted with "Still Dream" and released "Ready Now" in 2021.
Ravn’s last appearance with ONEUS was in their Japanese comeback “Dopamine.” He left the group following a scandal that has yet to be clarified. He returned as a soloist with the Japanese single "Comedy."
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