South Korean singer and actor Rowoon has parted ways from K-pop boy group SF9 to focus on individual activities, including acting.
On Monday, Sept. 18, South Korean talent agency FNC Entertainment released an official statement regarding the group’s activities.
“All members of SF9 previously renewed their contracts with our agency, and they will now take another leap forward with eight members excluding Rowoon,” read Soompi’s translation of the statement.
According to the agency, the contracts of SF9’s members had met its first expiration on Sept. 18. Although Rowoon did not renew his contract with his group, the company noted that he will still remain as the ninth member of SF9.
“Although the directions of their activities are different, Rowoon, who will remain as the ninth member of SF9, along with the other eight members will cheer each other on and each put in their full effort on their own paths in order to impress fans,” FNC Entertainment stated.
The talent agency urged fans to continue their support for SF9 and Rowoon as well.
Rowoon stood as the vocalist of his group but has also begun his acting career starring in School 2017, About Time, Extraordinary You, The King’s Affection, Tomorrow, and Destined With You.
The singer-actor penned a handwritten letter to his fans following his exit from the group which was translated by Soompi.
“I participated in scheduled activities with a grateful heart for each and every precious memory during the past seven years,” Rowoon wrote about his memories as an idol for several years.
“I’m only filled with gratitude as I’m writing [this letter] while looking back on my life. This is also thanks to everyone. This year, I am 27, and I want to take on a new challenge,” he said, expressing his pride and courage to “take on a new challenge”.
“Please keep watch so that 27-year-old Kim Seok Woo (Rowoon’s real name) can live a life that he can be responsible for.”
“I will be exactly as how everyone remembers. I am grateful to everyone. I would be grateful if you keep watch over me with affection,” Rowoon promised his fans.
SF9 debuted in 2016 and has been an active group for seven years under FNC Entertainment. Aside from Rowoon, the group is composed of eight members: Youngbin, Inseong, Jaeyoon, Dawon, Zuho, Yoo Taeyang, Hwiyoung, and Chani.
Three members, Inseong, Youngbin and Jaeyoon, are currently undergoing their mandatory military service.
SF9 recently made their comeback with the release of their 12th mini album “The Piece OF9” last January.
