A member of K-pop idol group Victon who was caught by the police for drunk driving in Seoul last month will be leaving the group.
IST Entertainment announced on Oct. 11 that Heo Chan, 26, will no longer be a part of Victon after discussion.
“We would like to express our sincere gratitude to the fans who care about the group Victron, and would like to inform you about the member changes as follows,” the agency said.
It added, “After careful discussion with Victon including Heo Chan, it was decided that Heo Chan will leave the team."
“We have come to this decision by taking into account the opinions of the members and Heo Chan who did not want to cause any more trouble. Once again, we apologize for causing concern to the fans with this sudden news, and ask for your understanding,” the agency added.
It said Victon will be reorganized as a group with six members: Han Seung-woo, Kang Seung-sik, Im Se-jun, Do Han-se, Choi Byung-chan, and Jung Soo-bin.
The “2022 Victon Fan Concert ” scheduled on Oct. 15 and 16 and future schedules will be done by five members except for Han Seung-woo, who is serving in the military.
On Sept. 20, Heo Chan was caught driving under the influence after meeting his acquaintances. He is being investigated by the Gangnam police.
“I sincerely bow my head in apology for delivering unfortunate news ahead of many schedules. I once again apologize for causing a social controversy due to my wrong actions on Sept. 20,” Heo Chan posted on Instagram.
He said, “Even though I should have taken more responsibility for my actions as a public figure who should be an example for the public and fans, it caused great disappointment due to a wrong choice in a moment.”
“I am sincerely reflecting, and I am spending time with regret and self-blame every day,” he said.
Heo Chan added, “I will live with deep reflection in my heart in order to keep all the criticisms and reprimands for irreversible actions in my heart, and to become a person who is not ashamed of myself in the future. I sincerely bow my head and apologize for causing controversy once again.”
IST Entertainment said, “Heo Chan plans to take a break from his team and individual activities from today.”