"All the members thought about it together"— RIIZE's Wonbin shows support for Seunghan amid ot6 protests following his return from hiatus

On October 10, 2024, RIIZE's member Wonbin took to the fan-interaction platform Weverse to express his support for fellow bandmate Seunghan, following the announcement of the latter's return from a nearly ten-month hiatus. Seunghan, who took a break shortly after the group's debut, left the group performing as a six-member unit due to a controversy involving leaked pre-debut images and videos that sparked backlash in South Korea.

Although many fans of RIIZE (BRIIZE) welcomed Seunghan's return, some expressed their displeasure, fearing that his past actions could tarnish the group’s reputation. In protest, certain fans demonstrated by sending ‘funeral wreaths’ to SM Entertainment’s building.

Wonbin addressed the situation in a heartfelt post, explaining how the group had spent significant time discussing Seunghan’s return.

"I think Breeze must have thought about that a lot over the past time, whether Seung-han is coming back or not, and why he doesn't give a definite answer quickly. We've also talked a lot with Seung-han and the company for a long time. I want you to know that the members thought, thought, and thought deeply about it together."

Wonbin also acknowledged the concerns of the fandom but reassured them that all members, alongside their company, had deeply considered the decision. He hoped that despite the controversy, fans would find some comfort in the band's united stance.

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More about RIIZE's Seunghan and the controversy

The controversy centered around some photos of the artist allegedly kissing a woman, believed to be his former girlfriend, and videos of him allegedly smoking while still underage.

The return of the seventh member was officially confirmed by SM Entertainment on October 11, 2024. The company announced that the artist would resume participating in group activities and promised fans that RIIZE would continue delivering quality performances and music. It stated,

"Seunghan will be participating in some of the team's scheduled as the members and strive to give back to them with good music and a great stage. We hope you will join us in all the growth and realization of the members as they continue to unfold.”

The announcement brought relief to many fans, who took to social media, using the hashtag "#RIIZEIS7" to celebrate the return of the original lineup. The idol also took the opportunity to personally address the situation, writing a sincere handwritten letter to the fans on Weverse.

He expressed regret for his actions and thanked his fellow members and fans for their support, pledging to regain their trust and work harder as a valuable part of the group. In his letter, the idol wrote,

"Hello, this is Seunghan. First, I would like to sincerely apologize to the members and the fans. When the photos from before my debut were released, I was disappointed and regretful about myself, and I can't imagine how the members and fans felt. I think you must have been angry, surprised, and disappointed."

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Despite some opposition from a minority of fans, the member's return marks a significant moment for RIIZE, with both fans and members hopeful for a strong comeback as a united seven-member group.