K-Pop Star Keum Dong-hyun Departs EPEX Amid Contract Termination

Keum Dong-hyun, who had paused his entertainment activities for personal reasons, has officially left the K-pop group EPEX. Keum gained attention in 2019 when he ranked 8th in Mnet's 'Produce X', initially securing a debut spot. However, due to vote manipulation, he was pushed to 14th place and did not join the group X1.

On the 21st, C9 Entertainment announced, "We inform you that our exclusive contract with Keum Dong-hyun has ended. We are grateful for his hard work as a member of EPEX."

The agency further stated, "We ask for your continued support for Keum Dong-hyun's future endeavors," and explained that EPEX will continue as a seven-member group consisting of Wish, MU, A-Min, Baekseung, Ayden, Yewang, and Jeff.

They also expressed gratitude, "We sincerely thank the fans for their unwavering support and love for EPEX, and we ask for your continued interest and affection for EPEX's future activities."

EPEX debuted in June 2021 as the second boy group from C9 Entertainment. Keum Dong-hyun, a key member, had temporarily halted activities in May due to personal reasons. After approximately six months, he has now left the group following the termination of his contract.

Lee So-jung, TenAsia Reporter forusojung@tenasia.co.kr