K-pop boy band NCT member Lucas, 22, who is also part of the Chinese boy group WayV and supergroup SuperM, issued an apology after a woman who said she was a former girlfriend accused him of gaslighting and mooching off from her.
The controversy resulted in the suspension of the release of Lucas and WayV member Hendery’s single “Jalapeño” on Aug. 25.
According to the woman, she and Lucas dated, and he would make her pay for rooms at hotels and ask her to buy expensive things, according to SBS News.
She also said that he told her they should break up, he told her, "I don't like you because you seem like my fan" and "Don't be a fangirl anymore." To back her claims, she uploaded screenshots of their conversations and photos.
A Chinese fan also came out and said she experienced the same with Lucas.
On Aug. 25, Lucas issued apologies in Korean and Chinese languages and said, "I sincerely would like to apologize to those hurt by my wrongdoings. If you give me a chance, I'd like to apologize to you in person. I also feel truly sorry to all my fans for this."
According to Lucas, "For the past few days, I spent time reflecting on my past. My past actions were very wrong and irresponsible, and I shouldn't have done them if I had considered everyone who had given me so much love and support."
"Once again, I would like to say sorry to everybody who I disappointed. Besides, I'm sorry for the damage and inconvenience I caused to my fellow members, company staff and broadcasting staff," he added.
Lucas said, "I will make sure that nothing like this ever happens again, and will halt all my scheduled activities in order to take time to reflect on myself. I'm genuinely sorry."
SM Entertainment also issued a statement and apologized for Lucas’ controversy.
“We apologize for causing concern over the personal life of our artist Lucas. Recognizing the seriousness of this matter, we have decided to stop releasing all content, including the song and music video for WayV-Lucas and Hendery’s single 'Jalapeño',’ which was scheduled to be released at 6 p.m. on Aug. 25,” it said.
SM Entertainment said “Lucas is deeply reflecting on the fact that he has caused great pain and disappointment due to his own wrong actions, and we also feel responsible for poor management of the artist. Once again, we deeply apologize for causing concern to many people, including fans, with Lucas' personal issue.”