Ju Haknyeon is facing controversy for allegedly soliciting prostitution from former Japanese pornstar Asuka Kirara.
A Korean media outlet reported that Ju Haknyeon met Asuka at a private bar in Tokyo’s Roppongi district on May 29 and paid her for sex. This incident reportedly took place in late May.
One Hundred Label, THE BOYZ’ agency, confirmed Ju Haknyeon’s involvement in “a controversial incident” and announced his contract termination. They stated:
We recently took action to suspend Ju Haknyeon’s activities as soon as we were informed that he was involved in a controversial incident in order to take time to thoroughly investigate and verify the facts.
As a result of our investigation, we have recognized the severity of the issue and have taken it seriously. We have realized that it has become difficult to maintain our trust in him as an artist. Due to this, after sufficient discussions with the members of THE BOYZ, we have decided that Ju Haknyeon will be withdrawing from the group and that his exclusive contract will be terminated.
We kindly ask for your understanding that this decision was an inevitable decision made to protect the members of THE BOYZ and the group as a whole. We are informing you that as of today, Ju Haknyeon will no longer be part of THE BOYZ and will cease all activities with the group.
One Hundred Label will spare no effort in fully supporting the remaining members of THE BOYZ so that they can continue to promote in a healthy and stable state.
Once again, we sincerely apologize for causing concern to the fans and we will do our best to repay the fans with better news and promotions in the future.
— One Hundred Label
Legal consequences loom for both parties. South Korean law fines anyone who engages in prostitution up to ₩3.00 million KRW (approx. $2,180 USD) or up to one year in prison. This applies regardless of where the act occurs.
Sex workers face similar penalties and may also risk deportation plus a 10-year entry ban under the Immigration Control Act. Earnings from sex work can also be seized.
Ju Haknyeon may also face penalties from his agency if this scandal breaches his contract or causes damage like lost sponsorships.
The controversy quickly gained traction, and agency officials are monitoring the situation closely. Former pornstar Asuka Kirara could also face legal trouble over the issue.
