Former Stray Kids Member To Debut Under SM Entertainment Subsidiary

Fans have recently uncovered that former Stray Kids member Woojin is gearing up for a debut under Kustomade — a new sub-label of the powerhouse SM Entertainment.

| Kustomade Website

The label change has shocked fans not only due to two of the “Big 4” labels being involved but also because the debut could mark Woojin’s big comeback after a controversial journey post-Stray Kids.

| Kustomade Website

Woojin’s K-Pop journey began with Stray Kids, which was formed by JYP Entertainment in 2017. As the lead vocalist and oldest member, Woojin played a pivotal role in the band’s success — contributing to their unique sound and cohesive group dynamics.

Woojin’s teaser for Stray Kids’ “Double Knot” | JYP Entertainment

However, in late 2019, JYP Entertainment announced Woojin’s departure from the group due to personal circumstances, leading to the termination of his exclusive contract. The news left fans shocked and saddened, marking an unexpected turn in Woojin’s career trajectory.

Woojin, who has been a member of Stray Kids, has left the team and terminated his contract due to personal circumstances. We apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused many fans.

— JYP Entertainment

| Kustomade Website

The years following his departure were tumultuous for Woojin. In 2020, he faced accusations of sexual assault from an anonymous Twitter post, which claimed an encounter with him at a bar in Seoul. The user claimed to have met Woojin during the coronavirus outbreak, where he allegedly tried to touch them inappropriately without their consent, despite repeated protests.

Part of the accusations made against Woojin. | X (formerly known as Twitter)

Woojin strongly denied these allegations, stating that he had never met the person and had not visited the mentioned locations.

Hello. This is Kim Woojin. Today, I am suffering from an absurd situation…

I am posting this to tell my fans about that situation. Someone on Twitter posted weird rumors and then deleted their account… I haven’t met that person, and I didn’t go to the places mentioned. My fans must have been very worried, but please don’t worry too much because none of that is true.

My new company is preparing to take action against the people who spread the false rumors, and they will relay their statement afterwards, so please don’t worry too much.

— Kim Woojin’s statement following the allegations

| Kustomade Website

The news of Woojin’s upcoming debut under Kustomade, SM Entertainment’s new sub-label, has ignited excitement among fans and netizens alike. This move signifies a major step forward in Woojin’s career, offering him a platform to reintroduce himself to the world of K-Pop.

It all starts with music. pic.twitter.com/Jlz2I2gaLM

— Kustomade (@byKustomade) March 18, 2024

With SM Entertainment’s reputation for producing top-tier talent, fans are eagerly anticipating what Woojin will bring to the table under this new partnership.