Ju Haknyeon details dismissal from The Boyz and claims coercion ahead of lawsuit

Ju Haknyeon has publicly addressed his abrupt dismissal from THE BOYZ and the legal action filed against him by his former label, according to a recent interview with Billboard.

The former member detailed the chain of events that led to his exit and expressed the severity of the situation, saying the lawsuit would amount to “the end of my life” if he were forced to pay the demand.

The controversy began after reports emerged that Haknyeon met with a former adult film actress at a bar in Tokyo on May 29. One Hundred Label, THE BOYZ’s agency, suspended his activities, then terminated his contract citing a clause that allows termination if an artist’s conduct is deemed to damage their dignity to an extent that interferes with entertainment activities. The agency claims that after review, Haknyeon had violated this clause and acted in a way incompatible with the group’s image.

Haknyeon denies any wrongdoing, saying he was at a gathering with many people and did not engage in the illegal conduct alleged. He claims that photographs of the meeting were taken and later sold to media outlets, and that he was forced into a termination agreement including a demand to repay signing bonuses and penalties. When he refused to sign, the agency filed a lawsuit initially demanding roughly 2 billion Korean won, later amended to approximately 8 billion won (around $5.5 million).

The dispute is now headed to court. Haknyeon maintains his innocence and has submitted a detailed refutation through his lawyers. He claims his former management coordinated with local media to force him out.

Supporters and some fans have voiced concern over what they say is a lack of evidence presented against him. The case casts a spotlight on how agencies, media and public image intersect in the K-pop industry.