Ju Haknyeon is facing a major controversy after his former agency, ONE HUNDRED, announced his removal from THE BOYZ following reports he met with former adult video actress Asuka Kirara.
ONE HUNDRED claims this violated the exclusive contract, making contract termination justified. Ju Haknyeon disputes this, saying meeting a celebrity isn’t grounds for termination and that the agency is demanding compensation.
Industry insiders have weighed in.
I think it’s natural that he leaves and terminates his contract. He has violated the contract clause to maintain dignity, and ONE HUNDRED seems to have decided based on the same judgment. It may be challenging to convince someone to leave after just one private meeting, but they must have pushed forward because they had a transparent background.
— industry insider A
Others suggest the scandal alone wouldn’t cause his exit, pointing to longer-standing conflicts.
Honestly, I don’t think this alone would have been enough to confirm his withdrawal. Meeting a former AV actress negatively impacts the group, but they don’t withdraw someone just because they are dating or have a one-night stand. Of course, if it were prostitution, it would be withdrawal, but this hasn’t been confirmed yet.
With this, I think the two parties must have a long-term conflict. Ju Haknyeon is also responsible, as he has not gained the agency’s trust for a long time. Also, he should be criticized for going to Japan for work and behaving this way. Wasn’t this an award ceremony, not free time or a hiatus?”
— industry insider B
Others framed Ju Haknyeon’s departure from THE BOYZ as the only viable option, especially considering fans.
In Ju Haknyeon’s position, he may have a justification for rationalizing the process of going there. However, considering the fans’ emotions and thoughts of the people involved, it is a situation that is hard to understand. He has no choice but to leave the team.
— industry insider C
Ju Haknyeon recently released a statement addressing the allegations.
The situation is ongoing and juicy as both sides hold firm on their stances. Fans and the industry are watching closely.
