Joo Haknyeon (26), a former member of the group The Boyz, has personally clarified allegations of prostitution involving a Japanese AV actress.
On the 19th, Joo Haknyeon released a handwritten statement on his Instagram, stating, "On the morning of May 30, 2025, I was indeed present at a drinking gathering with acquaintances, but there were absolutely no illegal activities such as prostitution as reported in articles or rumors."
Joo Haknyeon expressed his apologies to fans and everyone who was shocked by the articles about him, saying, "I deeply reflect on my actions and sincerely want to apologize to those who may have been surprised."
Earlier, a media outlet reported that Joo Haknyeon was seen with former Japanese AV actress Asuka Kirara (37) at a bar in Tokyo last month, and that they were captured engaging in physical contact by local entertainment media.
After the report, his agency, 100 Entertainment, announced an official statement confirming Joo Haknyeon's departure from the group and the termination of his exclusive contract.
Chairman Cha Ga-won of 100 Entertainment also conveyed an official apology, stating, "We humbly accept that we have been lacking in managing the personal lives and attitudes of our artists and members, and we deeply reflect on this."
Joo Haknyeon gained recognition by participating in Mnet's 'Produce 101' Season 2 in 2017 and debuted with The Boyz the same year.
Below is Joo Haknyeon's full statement.
Hello, this is Joo Haknyeon.
First of all, I apologize to the fans who were shocked by the articles about me and to everyone for causing concern due to this unfortunate incident.
It is true that I was present at a drinking gathering with acquaintances on the morning of May 30, 2025, but there were absolutely no illegal activities such as prostitution as reported in articles or rumors.
I deeply reflect on my actions and sincerely want to apologize to those who may have been surprised.
