Singer and actress Kang Mina will not participate in the 10th-anniversary reunion project of the group I.O.I. Kang Mina's agency, Story J Company, stated on the 12th through an official position that "it is true she will not participate." The agency explained, "The timing being discussed for the reunion activities overlaps with the filming schedule of her next drama and the promotional period for the drama to be released later, which caused a lot of concern."

The agency added, "We are aware of the long wait and high expectations from fans, so we had extensive discussions with the artist. After these discussions, we respected the artist's wish to focus on her acting career and concluded that it would be difficult for her to participate in this activity."

I.O.I is a project group formed through Mnet's audition program "Produce 101" in 2016. The group consisted of 11 members: Jeon Somi, Kim Sejeong, Choi Yoojung, Kim Chungha, Kim Sohye, Zhou Jieqiong, Jung Chaeyeon, Kim Doyeon, Kang Mina, Lim Nayoung, and Yoo Yeonjung, and they were active for about eight months until their disbandment in January 2017.

I.O.I is preparing for a reunion to celebrate their 10th anniversary in 2026. Recently, the members have shown positive responses toward the reunion. Jeon Somi said, "We are having detailed discussions about how we can meet and gather to create beautiful memories for the public," adding, "We plan to do well next year." Jung Chaeyeon also said, "We want to gather as much as possible. I hope we can meet with good results."

However, due to Kang Mina's decision not to participate, a full-group activity has fallen through. Currently, Kang Mina is starring in the KBS2 drama "Twelve" and has appeared in the Netflix film "The History of a Confession." She is also confirmed to appear in the Netflix series "Girik" and the tvN drama "Work Later, Drink Now."

Concerns are growing about whether I.O.I's reunion can proceed smoothly due to Kang Mina's absence. With high expectations for the reunion project, attention is focused on the future activities of the members.