The agency of the group Brown Eyed Soul has countered former member Sung Hoon's claims of being forced out.
On the 7th, Longplay Music, the agency representing Brown Eyed Soul, released an official statement. Longplay Music stated, "We would like to inform you that there are several inaccuracies in the content recently posted by former member Sung Hoon on his personal social media."
The statement continued, "We understand that Sung Hoon experienced psychological difficulties and instability due to the prolonged hiatus caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and a member's health issues. He has been undergoing professional counseling and treatment. During this period, he sent inappropriate messages to other members and their families, which raised concerns for the company. We repeatedly recommended treatment and rest."
Furthermore, "Despite this, the company respected Sung Hoon's desire to continue his music career and supported his solo album production and YouTube content creation. However, after a year with no change in the situation, we concluded that it was no longer sustainable. After discussions with Sung Hoon, we mutually agreed to terminate his contract and for him to leave the team."
Previously, Sung Hoon posted a lengthy message stating, "I must clarify my position. I did not decide to leave." He explained, "In 2022, I was waiting to record the Brown Eyed Soul album. I was told that Naul's voice was not in good condition and didn't know when it would recover, so I waited and prayed. One morning, I woke up to find out through the internet that Naul's voice had returned and a solo project was planned. My pent-up sorrow and anger from 20 years exploded."
Sung Hoon added, "What kept me going was my YouTube channel. Even though the views were low, it made me happy. But the CEO stopped me from continuing. He even told me to beg Naul on my knees if I wanted to continue. The words that my brothers might not forgive me still hurt." He continued, "The CEO suddenly came to my house with a termination contract and demanded I sign it. I was in shock. I want to make it clear that it wasn't my choice. I hope people understand that I wanted to hold on until the end."
Sung Hoon left Brown Eyed Soul in March 2023. The group has since restructured as a trio with Naul, Young Jun, and Jung Yup, and released their fifth studio album last month after six years. They are set to hold a year-end concert at Gocheok Sky Dome on December 24-25 and 27.
Kim Ji-won, Ten Asia Reporter one@tenasia.co.kr