Departure Announcement
On March 10, 2026, Heeseung announced his decision to leave the K-pop group Enhypen to pursue a solo career. This announcement comes after extensive discussions with Belift Lab, the group’s management company. Heeseung expressed his desire to inform the fans, known as ENGENE, in person, stating, “I wanted to tell engenes in person.” His departure marks a significant moment for the group, as it is the first lineup change since Enhypen’s debut in 2020.
Enhypen was formed through the competition show I-Land and debuted in 2020. Since then, the group has gained immense popularity, with notable achievements including their album Romance: Untold reaching No. 2 on the Billboard 200 in 2024 and a performance at Coachella in April 2025. The group’s latest project, a mini album titled The Sin : Vanish, was released in January 2026, showcasing their evolving musical style.
Heeseung’s Future Plans
Following his departure, Heeseung will be working on a solo album under Belift Lab. He shared his thoughts on the decision, saying, “After thinking about it for a long time, I made a big decision to approach ENGENE in a better way according to the direction the company suggested.” This move reflects his commitment to his career and the desire to explore new artistic avenues.
Group’s Continuation
Enhypen will continue as a six-member act after Heeseung’s departure. The remaining members have expressed their support for Heeseung’s decision, acknowledging the mixed reactions that fans might have. Belift Lab stated, “We understand that this news is a lot to process and may be received with mixed reactions.” The group aims to maintain their momentum and continue engaging with their fanbase.
Impact on Fans and Members
Heeseung’s departure is significant not only for the group but also for the fans who have supported Enhypen since their inception. His letter addressed to fans included heartfelt gratitude towards his bandmates and ENGENE, emphasizing the bond they have built over the years. Heeseung noted, “I will be the one who runs with what ENGENE have given us so far in mind,” indicating his intention to carry forward the experiences and memories he has shared with the group.
Current State of Enhypen
As of now, Enhypen is navigating this transition while preparing for future projects. The group’s focus remains on their music and performances, with plans to engage their audience through various activities. Heeseung’s departure, while a significant change, opens up new possibilities for both him and the remaining members as they continue to grow in the competitive K-pop industry.
Heeseung’s decision to leave Enhypen after six years marks a pivotal moment in the group’s history. As they move forward, both Heeseung and Enhypen will undoubtedly face new challenges and opportunities in their respective journeys. The support from fans will play a crucial role as they adapt to these changes and continue to evolve in the music landscape.