ATEEZ member Hongjoong was unable to join his fellow members for their scheduled appearance on MBC’s “Show! Music Core” on October 31 due to health reasons.
KQ Entertainment announced his absence through an official notice, explaining that the decision was made to prioritise the singer’s recovery and give him sufficient time to rest.
The update comes just days after Hongjoong and fellow ATEEZ member Wooyoung also missed the recording of JTBC’s variety programme “Knowing Bros” because of health concerns. With Hongjoong now missing another scheduled activity, the agency has reassured fans that his well-being remains its priority.
The announcement prompted concern among ATINY, who have been following the members’ activities and hoping for their recovery.
Although the agency has not disclosed further details about Hongjoong’s current condition, it has asked fans to understand his absence.
KQ Entertainment Announces Hongjoong’s Absence From “Music Core”
On October 31, KQ Entertainment released an official statement confirming that Hongjoong would not participate in that day’s episode of “Show! Music Core.”
The ATEEZ leader had originally been scheduled to appear with the rest of the group but was unable to attend due to health reasons.
In its announcement, the agency stated,
“We have prioritized our artist’s health and recovery, ensuring that he is given sufficient time to rest and recuperate.”
KQ Entertainment also requested fans’ understanding regarding the schedule change and assured them that it would continue supporting Hongjoong throughout his recovery.
The agency did not specify the nature of his current health concerns or provide a timeline for his return to scheduled activities.
As a result, fans are waiting for further updates while respecting the decision to allow him time away from work.
This was not Hongjoong’s first recent absence from a group activity.
On October 29, KQ Entertainment announced that both Hongjoong and Wooyoung would miss the scheduled recording of “Knowing Bros” due to health reasons.
The agency shared a similar message at the time, emphasising that their health and recovery would take priority.
Fans Express Concern Following Hongjoong’s Recent Schedule Changes
Hongjoong’s absence from “Music Core” has added to fans’ concerns following the announcement about the “Knowing Bros” recording.
Since both updates cited health reasons without providing specific medical details, supporters have been hoping for more information about the members’ recovery.
The latest notice also follows an earlier health update in August 2026, when KQ Entertainment revealed that Hongjoong had been diagnosed with a rib fracture after visiting a hospital because of a cough.
At the time, medical professionals advised him to get sufficient rest, and the agency said his participation in upcoming activities could be adjusted depending on his physical condition.
However, the October announcements did not confirm whether his current health concerns are connected to the earlier injury.
No further medical information has been shared, so the two updates should not be assumed to be related.
For now, KQ Entertainment has made it clear that Hongjoong’s recovery is more important than maintaining his scheduled appearances.
Fans are hoping that he receives the rest he needs and can return to activities when he is ready.
While ATEEZ continued its scheduled “Music Core” appearance without its leader, supporters have been sending messages of encouragement to Hongjoong and wishing both him and Wooyoung a comfortable recovery.
