Heeseung, a former member of the group Enhypen, spoke out for the first time since leaving the team. On March 22, during a video call event with fans, Heeseung said, "You must have been really surprised, but I'm okay. Still, on the other hand, I feel a little sorry." This is his first statement about two weeks after his agency Belift Lab officially announced his departure on March 10.

Belift Lab explained the reason behind Heeseung's withdrawal, saying, "We had in-depth conversations about each member's envisioned future and the team's direction, and through this process, we confirmed Heeseung's clear musical aspirations and decided to respect them." Accordingly, Enhypen will be reorganized as a six-member group, and Heeseung will continue his activities as a solo artist under Belift Lab.

In a handwritten letter shared on the fan platform, Heeseung wrote, "After long consideration, I made a big decision following the direction proposed by the company," and added, "I am well aware of your concerns and various opinions. I will work hard to meet you again as soon as possible."

The remaining members of Enhypen sent a message to fans regarding the shock, stating, "We respect and support Heeseung hyung's choice and new beginning." They also said, "The biggest pain for us is seeing ENGENE worried and struggling," and pledged, "We will never forget our gratitude every moment and become stronger to be a more confident and proud Enhypen."

Reactions within the fandom have sharply divided since Heeseung's departure. While some fans support his decision, others continue to criticize his independent path, escalating conflicts. During this process, some fans held truck protests in front of the HYBE building and posted protest comments on the agency officials' social media accounts, leading to online attacks. Furthermore, protests extended to the National Pension Service, citing HYBE's status as a major shareholder.

Enhypen was formed through the 2020 Mnet audition program "I-LAND" and debuted in November of the same year. Last year, they achieved triple million-seller status with their second full album "Romance: Untold" and attracted 670,000 spectators worldwide through their world tour "Walk the Line," establishing themselves as a global sensation. With Heeseung's transition to a solo career, Enhypen will continue activities as a six-member group.

During the video call event, Heeseung recalled precious moments with fans, saying, "The six years were so valuable that words cannot express them." He confessed, "I had many things I wanted to show through personal work, but I didn't want to put my own desires ahead within the team."

Controversy related to Heeseung's departure continues within the fandom, and attention is focused on his solo activities and Enhypen's six-member group activities. Enhypen plans to strengthen communication with fans and strive to achieve the team's goals going forward.