Ever since SM Entertainment announced Seunghan's departure from RIIZE, international BRIIZE as well as non-fans have been protesting. K-pop stans not only unfollowed the group across social media, but also trended hashtags to show their displeasure at the sudden move by the label. As the boycott continues to grow, K-pop stores have also shown their support for Seunghan and his fans.
K-pop stores refuse to restock RIIZE's albums, merch
Amid the ongoing boycott, a number of K-pop stores announced that would be halting restock of RIIZE’s merchandise and album. Major shops from US, France and more places decided to stand in solidarity with fans. SubK Shop, who have partnered with SM Entertainment on numerous occasions, released a statement that read, “In light of recent events, we have decided to temporarily halt the importing of RIIZE products out of respect for our customers, fans, and the artist. Existing orders will still be fulfilled, pre-purchased inventory will remain, and future sales will be reevaluated as the situation evolves.”
Announcement Regarding RIIZE Products pic.twitter.com/bepIKAFlgA
— SubK Shop (@subkshop) October 15, 2024
EvePink, LightUpK, Stardust K-pop Shop, Hey!Hallyu, Nolae and many more K-pop stores across the globe also refused to restock RIIZE's albums and merchandise.
Seunghan leaves RIIZE
Just two days after SM Entertainment announced that Seunghan would be re-joining RIIZE, the label shared that he had decided to depart from the group. “Seunghan has expressed his intention to leave the team for the members and fans. We respect the artist’s decision, and we would like to inform you that Seunghan has left the RIIZE, not joined again,” the official statement read.
ALSO READ: Did Super Junior's Leader Leeteuk Indirectly Show Support For Seunghan Post His Departure From RIIZE?
For the unversed, Seunghan had been on a hiatus since November 2023 as he was embroiled in multiple controversies over his pre-debut pics and clips. In the leaked media, the former RIIZE member could be seen smoking and hanging out with girls.