IST Entertainment's new 7-member rookie boy group TUNEXX continued to count down to the release of their debut mini album, 'Set By Us Only', amidst various ongoing rumors surrounding member Kim Sihwan.
Previously, during his appearance as a contestant on the Mnet survival program 'Boys II Planet', Kim Sihwan faced various rumors over his alleged "misbehavior" in middle school. The rumors claimed that as a student, Kim Sihwan was known for constantly making inappropriate sexual remarks and actions in public and privately with his friends, once becoming involved in an investigation by a school violence committee for sexually harassing a female teacher.
After being eliminated at 48th place on 'Boys II Planet', Kim Sihwan returned to his status as a trainee at IST Entertainment and was eventually selected as a debuting member of the agency's new boy group, TUNEXX, along with fellow 'Boys II Planet' alums Kim Donggyu, Kim Inhu, and Arctic.
However, upon hearing news of Kim Sihwan's debut in TUNEXX, some fans of the upcoming boy group have been demanding the his removal from the group.
Indirectly addressing the rumors as well as some fans' ongoing demands for action, IST Entertainment released the following statement on February 13 KST:
"We have recently identified repeated malicious posts targeting our artists in online spaces. These include the dissemination of false information, defamation, personal attacks, and insults. Such actions constitute clear illegal conduct that causes severe mental distress to our artists, and we are currently pursuing legal action.
In particular, as an initial response to illegal activities identified on X accounts, we have filed criminal complaints with investigative authorities against five specific accounts in cooperation with Shinwon Law Firm LLC.
Going forward, we will continue to collect evidence and respond strictly to the creation and distribution of malicious rumors, mocking and defamatory posts, and the production and dissemination of distorted content across online platforms, including social media. For any confirmed illegal acts, we will respond firmly without any leniency or settlement."
Soon after distributing the above statement, IST Entertainment proceeded to resume scheduled teaser promotions for TUNEXX's debut, rolling out a set of 'Unset' version teaser images for 'Set By Us Only'.
Made up of members Donggyu, Inhu, Taira, Sungjun, Zeon, Sihwan, and Arctic, TUNEXX are set to debut next month on March 3 at 6 PM KST.
SEE ALSO: TUNEXX shares emotional debut reflections at first showcase
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