"SM Supports Bullying" trends on X as the label faces backlash over RIIZE's Seunghan's departure announcement following domestic fan protests

On October 14, 2024, international fans of RIIZE's Seunghan rallied on social media, trending "#SMSupportsBullying" on X (formerly known as Twitter) with over 1.83 million posts. This uproar followed SM Entertainment's announcement of Seunghan's official departure from the group, a decision seemingly influenced by backlash from South Korean fans after his return from hiatus was initially confirmed.

The controversy highlights a division within the fandom, with global fans voicing anger at SM Entertainment for what they perceive as siding with critics and haters rather than supporting Seunghan.

Fans expressed their frustration on social media, criticizing the label's handling of both the member and the group as a whole and protesting the decisions made by the company. A user on X, @blinglikebobby wrote,

"This situation is honestly so ridiculous like bffr. forcing a teen into hiatus, and to ultimately leave the group, for having a girlfriend pre-debut is INSANITY #SMSupportsBullying."

"I'm sorry but i don't support a company who doesn't prioritize or care about their artists. They acted like he committed a crime," a fan wrote.

"how do you want RIIZE to be seen as a globally famous group when you don’t EVER listen to the international fans? how can you only care abt the knets???," another fan mentioned.

"Leave it to SM to pander and cater to their kfans and their delusional beliefs while ignoring all of their ifans and the health and care of their idols once again," an X user remarked.

"He really doesn’t deserve what SM and kfans have done to him and i refuse to support a group and a company that enables toxic fans," a user commented.

Following the label’s announcement, RIIZE's official X account, @RIIZE_official, experienced a significant drop in followers, losing more than 14,000 in just 24 hours.

"THEY BULLIED HIM OUT OF RIIZE," a user on X wrote.

"UNFOLLOW RIIZE. BOYCOTTING HELPS. STAND ON BUSINESS," a fan mentioned.

"BRIIZE Unfollow all of their accounts let's show them how international fan base is important too," an X user remarked.

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The complete timeline of events leading to RIIZE’s Seunghan officially leaving the group

Seunghan’s hiatus began after pre-debut photos and videos were leaked, stirring controversy in South Korea. The leaked content allegedly showed the idol kissing a woman, rumored to be his ex-girlfriend, and reportedly smoking underage.

Domestic fans reacted strongly, with some accusing him of inappropriate behavior for an idol and demanding his removal from the group. In response, SM Entertainment placed Seunghan on an indefinite hiatus to allow him time for self-reflection. On October 11, 2024, SM Entertainment surprised fans by announcing his return to the group.

The news thrilled many fans, particularly those who had eagerly awaited the reunion of RIIZE’s original seven-member lineup.

However, a segment of the fandom, often referred to as 'OT6' fans, strongly opposed the return. These fans voiced their discontent both online and offline, with some going as far as sending funeral wreaths to SM Entertainment’s building as a form of protest.

The gesture sparked controversy, with many in the broader K-pop community condemning the act as disrespectful. Reports also emerged that Seunghan had allegedly been seen walking past the wreaths, adding to the emotional intensity of the situation.

Faced with mounting criticism, SM Entertainment issued an apology on October 14 for the confusion surrounding Seunghan’s planned return and announced his departure from RIIZE. The label explained that while they had hoped Seunghan’s return would allow him to reflect on his past mistakes and grow with the group, they ultimately reconsidered the decision in light of fan reactions.

Seunghan himself voluntarily offered to leave the group, stating that he wanted to prevent further division among fans and avoid causing harm to RIIZE’s reputation. In a heartfelt letter to fans, he apologized for the controversy and expressed regret for his actions.

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With RIIZE now a six-member group, the path ahead remains uncertain as they continue to evolve in the coming months.