In a recent development that has stirred the K-pop community, GF Entertainment announced the departure of Hwon from the boy group The KingDom. This decision followed a series of dating controversies surrounding the idol, leading to widespread criticism of the agency's handling of the situation.
In September 2024, rumors began circulating about Hwon's personal life. One of the most damaging rumors surfaced when an individual alleged that Hwon had been working at a host bar during his tenure with The KingDom.
This claim suggested that he engaged in such activities even after his official debut, raising questions about his commitment to his idol's responsibilities. However, some fans have contested these allegations, pointing out inconsistencies in the timelines and lack of concrete evidence.
In response to the escalating situation, GF Entertainment announced on October 1, 2024, that Hwon would be taking an indefinite hiatus due to health concerns. On January 17, 2025, the agency announced that Hwon had been removed from the K-pop group. The statement read:
"Hello, this is GF Entertainment. We thank all the fans who love The Kingdom. The Kingdom member HWON has ended group activities due to personal reasons. We apologize for causing concern with this sudden news. Please give Hwon and The Kingdom your warm support. Thank you."
The sequence of events led to significant backlash from fans, who criticized GF Entertainment for handling the situation. Many believe the agency's lack of transparency and delayed responses exacerbated the controversy, ultimately affecting Hwon's career and the group's reputation. One fan wrote:
"WHY CANT YOU PROTECT YOUR ARTISTS"
Discussions across social media platforms reflected a sense of disappointment and frustration among fans.
"This is sickening. This is genuinely sickening. First Chiwoo and now Hwon. GFE ave you no concern for your members or your fans? We’ve all been extremely vocal about how much we love him and want him back. Shame on you." one fan wrote.
"Kingdom is going to flop cuz gf ent has no respect for the members, the group itself, nor the fans. Was there ever even an attempt to consider what the members or fans want?" another fan wrote.
"Absolutely gutted, he was such a good fit after the trauma of losing Chiwoo and now this. If this wasn't his choice then curse you GF. Kingme wanted him back and you know that," one other fan added.
Fans expressed how heartbroken they were over Hwon's departure from the group.
"I’m really disappointed, the heartbreak I felt when Chiwoo left still lingers to this day and now Hwon truly Gf you can’t keep pulling the personal reasons bull crap we want answers you know how much Kingme loves Hwon do better man <\3" a fan reacted.
"You had one job and you did it terribly, gf ent." another fan stated.
"Hwon if this was your decision then kingme will always be by your side and we love you~ if this wasn’t your decision then I’m disappointed again and again with the treatment of Kingdom…boys I hope you’re okay," another fan wrote.
KingDom's Hwon's rumored dating scandal: Everything we know so far
In recent months, Hwon, a member of the K-pop group, The KingDom, has been at the center of multiple controversies that have significantly impacted his career and the group's dynamics. These allegations include claims of his involvement in host bar activities, accusations of ghosting an ex-girlfriend after intimate encounters, and suspicions of public dating.
Compounding the situation, an anonymous individual came forward, claiming to be Hwon's ex-girlfriend. She alleged that after they had been intimate, Hwon ceased all communication with her—a behavior commonly referred to as "ghosting." This accusation painted a negative image of Hwon's conduct, leading to further scrutiny from the public and fans alike.
Adding to the controversy, in September 2024, fans and netizens compiled photographs and social media posts that purportedly showed Hwon dining at specific restaurants simultaneously with an unidentified woman.
These compilations, often termed "Lovestagrams," were used to suggest that Hwon was engaging in a public romantic relationship. Due to cultural expectations and fan perceptions, this topic remains sensitive within the K-pop industry.
In response to the mounting allegations, GF Entertainment announced on September 30, 2024, that Hwon would go on an indefinite hiatus from group activities, citing health concerns. The official statement read:
"We would like to inform you about Hwon's future activities. Due to health reasons, Hwon will be suspending his activities for the time being. As a result, The KingDom will continue as a six-member group starting today (the 30th), excluding Hwon. We apologize for any concern this sudden news may cause."
The KingDom, managed by GF Entertainment, made its official debut on February 18, 2021, with the mini-album, History of Kingdom: Part I. Arthur. Hwon was introduced as the newest member of the boy band on August 31, 2022.
He officially debuted with the group on September 21, 2022, contributing to their dynamic performances and musical releases.