It’s been nearly a week since BELIFT LAB announced Heeseung’s (희승) departure from ENHYPEN (엔하이픈), sparking heated reactions from ENGENEs (ENHYPEN fans) across the globe. Unfortunately, the company’s recent comment on the issue sparked even more backlash.
On 15th March 2026 (Sunday), BELIFT LAB shared a comment about Heeseung’s departure via The Korea Herald. In the interview, the agency reaffirms that the idol will not return to ENHYPEN despite calls and protests from fans. The company explained, “He has a clear artistic direction he wants to pursue, and we decided to respect that.”
Last Tuesday (10th March 2026), BELIFT LAB announced that Heeseung is leaving ENHYPEN to pursue a solo career. The company added that they came to that decision after discussing it with the vocalist. However, many ENGENEs were unhappy with the explanation, arguing that Heeseung could pursue a solo career while still being a member of ENHYPEN.
In their latest comment, BELIFT LAB further explained their decision, saying that ENHYPEN’s “extremely demanding” schedule makes it difficult for the members to develop solo musical projects while maintaining full group activities. As such, the company concluded that pursuing a full solo career outside of the group is the best arrangement for all parties involved.
The comment only sparked even more backlash towards BELIFT LAB and their management of their artists. Many fans argued that the agency has control over the group’s schedules and could reduce their workload to accommodate the members’ solo projects, but they decided against it. Many fans also began pointing out past instances of the company overworking the members.
It’s also worth noting that ENGENEs appear to be more upset at BELIFT LAB, rather than about Heeseung’s departure, as they believe the company is not being transparent about the situation. Nevertheless, fans continue their protests, holding more demonstrations at the HYBE headquarters in Seoul.
Sources: The Korea Herald, Twitter
