Wonho Announces His Departure From Monsta X

In a move that shocked fans across the world, Monsta X’s Wonho announced earlier today that he will be withdrawing from the group. The news comes just two days after the group’s successful comeback with their new EP Follow: Find You. An official statement from Monsta X’sStarship Entertainment made the initial announcement, followed by Wonho himself confirming his decision via a hand-written letter to his fans posted on the group’s official FanCafe account.

Over the past few weeks the singer was caught up in rumours alleging he had borrowed money from his Ulzzang Shidae co-star Jung Da Eun– a claim Starship Entertainment stated was false. The statement did nothing to quell malicious online comments and criticism aimed at Wonho. In his letter, vocalist apologized to his fans and stated that he made the decision to leave to protect Monsta X from further scrutiny.

His letter to fans reads as follows:

This is Wonho.

First, I would like to apologize for not being able to keep the promise that I would only provide good memories to our fans and for causing them pain. Furthermore, I apologize for causing concern to many people due to my personal issues.

I have received undeserving blessings and love while promoting as a MONSTA X member. I sincerely thank you for making precious memories for me. To the members who worked hard with me and stayed with me, I would like to tell them that I’m thankful and that I love them. [I would also like to show them] my apologetic heart.

There was a time when I was immature and have made big and small mistakes, but after becoming a trainee and making my debut, I stayed on track and worked hard to avoid being ashamed of myself.

I am announcing that I am leaving MONSTA X today.

I am apologetic for causing harm to the members due to the unfortunate issues related to me. More than anything, I am sorry for disappointing my fans who believed in me. I have reached this decision after seeing many people having a hard time because of me.

In addition to our members, I once again sincerely bow my head in apology to the fans who have believed in me and supported me.

Please give strength to MONSTA X. The members have nothing to do with me. I carefully ask that you at least give support and encouragement to the members. They are people who are too good to stop and get hurt like this because of someone like me. I am so thankful and apologetic to the staff, members, and lastly our fans who have allowed me to enjoy such happiness until this point.

Starship Entertainment has further clarified that Monsta X will continue to promote their latest album Follow: Find You this week and release music in the future as a six-member group. In the two hours since the announcement however, fans have flooded social media with messages to Wonho, asking him to reconsider his departure from the group.