On 10 March 2026, Belift Lab officially announced the departure of Lee Heeseung from ENHYPEN. According to the company’s statement, the decision was made to allow him to focus on pursuing solo activities.

The announcement came as a significant shock to fans. There had been no prior indications suggesting such a development, no farewell performance, no public messages from the remaining members, and no known controversy preceding the decision. The abrupt nature of the announcement led to confusion within the fandom, as Heeseung’s absence appeared immediate, with minimal acknowledgment following his departure.

Concerns were further raised regarding the handling of the situation. Fans noted that existing promotional materials and merchandise continued to feature Heeseung, despite his departure. Additionally, reports of sudden schedule changes, including the cancellation of his participation in a planned group performance in Australia, contributed to perceptions of mismanagement.

In response, members of ENHYPEN’s fandom (ENGENEs) initiated protests and campaigns advocating for his reinstatement. A common argument among fans is that Heeseung should be allowed to pursue solo activities while remaining part of the group. This perspective is supported by precedents within the broader K-pop industry, where artists frequently balance group and individual careers.

For example, Yeonjun of Tomorrow X Together has released solo music while continuing group promotions. Similarly, all members of Seventeen have participated in individual projects without leaving the group. Members of BTS have also pursued solo releases over several years while maintaining group affiliation. Additionally, Yunjin of LE SSERAFIM has released solo tracks alongside her group activities.

These examples have led to broader questions regarding the necessity of Heeseung’s departure. One possible explanation is ENHYPEN’s reportedly demanding schedule, which may limit opportunities for individual pursuits. However, this raises further concerns about workload management and whether alternative arrangements such as temporary breaks or staggered activities could have been considered.

Operational challenges stemming from the departure are also notable. Sudden changes to scheduled events, including fan calls and performances, may require logistical adjustments such as choreography revisions and redistribution of vocal lines. As the group’s main vocalist, Heeseung’s absence would likely have a significant impact on both live performances and previously recorded material.

Finally, fans have expressed concern about the broader implications for the remaining members. ENHYPEN has already faced various challenges throughout its career, and the cumulative effect of such events may influence both the group’s dynamics and the members’ mental and physical well-being.

Fans have also highlighted ongoing concerns regarding the treatment of ENHYPEN, including :

•Reports and perceptions of heavy workloads and limited rest.

•Allegations of mismanagement dating back to the group’s early career period.

•Concerns that members are not being treated with sufficient autonomy or consideration as individuals.

These concerns contribute to a broader narrative regarding artist welfare within the company.

In addition to these concerns, fans would like to address prior issues related to the treatment of ENHYPEN members, both during their trainee period and after debut.

During their time on I-LAND, members were placed in an extremely high-pressure environment for an extended period. Reports and broadcast content indicate that trainees-some as young as 14 years old-were confined for approximately three months with no access to personal phones or outside communication, no direct contact with family members, limited forms of entertainment or psychological relief, continuous training and evaluation under intense conditions

Additionally, trainees were required to vote fellow participants out of the program, placing emotional strain on young individuals and forcing them into ethically difficult situations involving their peers.

This petition serves to emphasize that artists are individuals with autonomy, not assets to be managed without consideration for their well-being, health, dignity, and personal lives or the impact on their audience  ENHYPEN’s success is built on the dedication of its members and the unwavering support of its fans; both deserve to be treated with respect.

In light of these issues, we respectfully but firmly present the following demands:

1.The reinstatement of Lee Heeseung as a member of ENHYPEN.

2.The allowance for him to pursue solo activities while remaining part of the group.

3.Improved transparency and communication regarding major decisions affecting the group.

4.The implementation of fair, humane, and ethical management practices that prioritize the members’ physical and mental well-being.

5.A formal acknowledgment and review of past management practices to ensure similar concerns are not repeated in the future.

Should these concerns remain unaddressed, a significant portion of the fandom is prepared to reconsider its continued support. This includes organized boycotts and, as well as calls for the disbandment of the group under current management conditions.

Key Decision Makers:

•Kim Tae-ho, the President and CEO of BELIFT LAB, a subsidiary of HYBE. 

•Jason Jaesang Lee, is the CEO of HYBE Corporation.

Relevant authorities:

•Bang Si-hyuk (also known as "Hitman" Bang) is the founder, chairman, and largest shareholder of HYBE Corporation.

•Yuki (Yukihiro Sato) as well as Mr. Sejin, managers of ENHYPEN.

Responsible parties:

Kim Tae-ho ,President and CEO of BELIFT LAB.