Seunghan of RIIZE is making a highly anticipated return to the K-pop scene after a 10-month hiatus, which began following a pre-debut controversy. On October 11, 2024, SM Entertainment officially confirmed Seunghan’s comeback, revealing plans for him to gradually rejoin the group’s activities starting in November. His break came after a private photo, leaked before RIIZE’s debut, sparked public backlash. SM Entertainment acknowledged Seunghan’s actions as inappropriate for a public figure, which led to his decision to step back from promotions to reflect on his behavior and improve himself as an artist
Seunghan’s return marks a pivotal moment for RIIZE, a group that has been navigating the K-pop industry since their debut in 2023. According to SM Entertainment, the decision for Seunghan to rejoin the group was made after extensive discussions with both the artist and his fellow members. The agency expressed confidence that RIIZE’s future endeavors would be most impactful with all seven members together. Seunghan, during his time away, has focused on personal growth and improving his skills, showing his commitment to his artistry and fans. His comeback aligns with the group’s preparation for new promotions, signaling an exciting next chapter
In addition to the official statement from SM Entertainment, Seunghan penned a heartfelt handwritten letter to RIIZE’s fanbase, known as “Breeze,” where he conveyed his deep gratitude for their unwavering support. He apologized for the concerns his past actions may have caused and promised to return with a renewed determination to contribute to the group. Fans have expressed mixed emotions—many are thrilled about his return, while others continue to scrutinize the initial controversy. Nonetheless, the majority are excited to see RIIZE perform as a full unit again
The upcoming November comeback is set to be a defining moment for RIIZE, as it will be their first full-group activity since Seunghan’s hiatus. SM Entertainment is hopeful that this comeback will allow the group to showcase their cohesive talent and reclaim momentum in the competitive K-pop landscape. With Seunghan rejoining, all eyes are on RIIZE to see how they evolve as a group and whether they can continue building their fanbase after overcoming this significant hurdle