Korean actor and idol Rowoon, star of the drama “Destined With You,” apologized to fans after leaving boy band SF9 in which debuted in 2016.
On Sept. 18, agency FNC Entertainment announced Rowoon’s departure from SF9, which will continue to promote with eight members.
Rowoon at the press conference for the drama "Destined With You" (JTBC)
Actress Jo Bo-ah (left) and Rowoon in the drama "Destined With You" (JTBC)
SF9 (FNC Entertainment)
"The members of SF9 renewed their contract with us, however, the group will resume as a 8-member group without RO WOON from now on. RO WOON will be focusing on carrying out his individual schedules as well as building his acting career. Please continue to give them your support even though they're heading different directions." the agency said, SBS News reported.
After the announcement, Rowoon uploaded a handwritten letter and apologized to fans for his attitude.
Rowoon gained popularity as an actor, including starring in “The King’s Affection” with Park Eun-bin.
"It took me some time to start writing this letter, as I didn't know how to begin. In fact, I'm slightly scared to write to you since it's been long,” Rowoon said in his letter.
He added, “In the past several years, there have been times when I felt frustrated because I wasn't able to clarify every single misunderstanding, no matter how big or small. I remember thinking, 'I'm sure someday people will know that wasn't what I meant at that time.' whenever situations like that arose. Then, I simply continued doing what I had to do."
Rowoon said as he got popular, he also got more hate.
"I understand that the more attention I got, the more hate I would get as well, but... I guess I was a bit of a coward. Instead of facing those people and telling them that they had misunderstood me, there were many days when I hid from everyone,” he said.
He apologized to fans for his attitude of seeking “to live life an easier way.”
"I would like to offer my sincere apology to my dear fans who may have been hurt due to my attitude; the attitude of attempting to live life an easier way. I'm sure some of you were also disappointed when you felt like I had changed; you found me to be different from how I used to be. I apologize from the bottom of my heart,” he said.
He said, "During my last seven years in the industry, I've worked with gratitude. And together, we created countless priceless memories. I was only filled with gratitude as I reflected on my life. You made all of this possible. Thank you."
"I'm 27, and I intend to begin something new. Keep a close eye on me and make sure this 27-year-old leads a responsible life. I promise you that I'll be the same guy that you remember. Thank you again,” according to him.