Wonbin, a member of Kpop boy band Riize, speaks out on the controversy over Seunghan's return and asks for continued support amid calls for a boycott of the group

SEOUL, Oct 13 – Park Wonbin of Kpop boy band Riize has appealed to fans of the group, known as Briize, to support the seven-member group despite their dissatisfaction over the return of suspended member Hong Seung-han.

Earlier today, the idol addressed fans on the Weverse platform and explained that the decision was made between members of the group, management and Seunghan himself.

“Briize! I'm not sure where to start…but I'll work up the courage to say what I want to share with you.

“As I write this, I'm thinking about how BRIIZE will feel when they see it. I'm cautious and worried. But I feel if we, the members, don't say anything or say nothing.” “If we don't share our thoughts, it will only lead to more confusion and difficulties for everyone. That’s why I organized the conversations I had with members and am writing this message.”

He said he understood that fans were asking if Seunghan would return, which they couldn't answer before.

“I completely understand these thoughts.

We also had many long conversations with Seunghan and the company. Members have given this much thought over and over again and I hope you can understand how much we have thought about this decision.

“We have always wanted to make everyone happy in Briize and we are sorry that we were not able to do that. I know this news may not completely ease your worries, but I hope it can at least bring some comfort to your confused hearts.” Wonbin added.

He said the group would not exist without the fan base and pleaded for their continued support.

“So if you can continue to support us and continue to look kindly on us, that would give us a lot of strength.”

“I promise that we will continue to work hard to make RIIZE a group that BRIIZE can always be proud of.”

Earlier this week, it was announced that Seunghan would be returning to the group's activities starting in November following his indefinite hiatus due to a personal controversy.

Riize's agency SM Entertainment had announced Seunghan's suspension in November following leaks of pre-Riize private photos and videos in August 2023 that showed the star kissing an unknown woman in a bed and smoking a cigarette.

Seunghan's impending return was met with mixed reactions from fans. Some called for a boycott of the group and even sent funeral wreaths to the SM Entertainment building in protest.