Popular HYBE Trainee’s Exit Sparks Mass Speculation

Netizens reacted to Youngseo‘s exit from HYBE ahead of her anticipated debut.

On January 5, HYBE LABEL’s BELIFT LAB revealed that the popular trainee will not be debuting with the agency’s upcoming girl group, I’LL-IT.

HYBE’s Upcoming Girl Group Drops Member

In a statement, the label stated that the decision was mutual and that the agency was respecting the wishes of the trainee.

Hello. This is BELIFT LAB.

We are announcing that I’LL-IT will be debuting as a five-member group.

After speaking with Youngseo about her future endeavors, we have agreed to cancel her contract. We ask that you do not speculate as the decision was mutual and respective of her wishes. We are sincerely supportive of Youngseo’s future.

I’LL-IT will debut as a five-member group. We will do our best to support them in their debut and their careers.

Thank you.

— BELIFT LAB

Netizens, however, expressed some skepticism about the announcement. Many could not believe that the trainee, who had worked so hard, would voluntarily give up her spot in the group.

• Why??? Youngseo was so popular.
• I mean, she was the prettiest member and the member I was most looking forward to… What is going on?
• I don’t think she would voluntarily quit her debut with a major label…
• Why??? She even took part in filming the group’s video content.
• I mean, why? She was a very popular member.
• Is dropping the most popular member before debuting a thing now? So many labels have done this.
• At the end of the day, the label picks the members. What is the point of having a competition show?
• I was really waiting for Youngseo’s debut, ㅜㅜ. It’s such a waste.
• Huh? I thought the label was pushing for Youngseo to debut, but then you’re saying she is voluntarily leaving?

What are your thoughts?