K-pop idol Rowoon leaves SF9 after 7 years, talks about receiving hate from fans

K-pop group SF9 has renewed its contract with their label FNC Entertainment, as announced by the agency on Monday. While all 8 members made the decision to stay with their old company, the 9th member Rowoon has taken a step back from the group. The actor-singer will be departing the band to focus on his solo activities. 

3 things you need to know 

• SF9 is a popular South Korean boy band. 
• The 9-member group was formed in 2016 under FNC Entertainment. 
• After Rowoon’s exit, the group will continue making music with 8 members. 

Rowoon pens a heartfelt note for fans 

Rowoon shared the news of his exit from SF9 on the band's official fan cafe. He announced that he would not be a part of the group in the future. The actor-singer admitted that he was scared of writing the letter as he believed that he might get hate for making this decision. But, he said he is being courageous and will face the consequences of his decision. 

His letter read, “Of course, I understand that I may receive as much hate as I’ve received interest and support, but I guess I’m a little soft. Depending on the occasion, you need to have courage to face and deny a misunderstanding when it arises.” 

(SF9 started off as a 9 member group in 2016 | Image: FNC Entertainment)

Rowoon went on to talk about his recent behaviour as he was trying to hide away from the fans. He apologised for his “complacent attitude”. The Tomorrow star looked back on his journey of 7 years as a K-pop idol and member of SF9 and extended gratitude to everyone who helped him during this time. He asked fans to watch over him and reassured them that he would remain the same Rowoon they used to know. 

FNC Entertainment releases statement

Earlier in the day, FNC Entertainment also issued a statement in this regard which read, “Debuted in the year 2016, who has been our artist for 7 years, SF9's contract with us has come to an end. All the members have renewed their contracts, however, they will move forward as an 8-member group except Rowoon. Rowoon will focus on his individual activities which include acting."