The K-pop boy group EPEX is moving forward as a seven-member unit following the official departure of member Keum (also known as Keum Dong Hyun).
The news was delivered by EPEX’s agency, C9 Entertainment, on November 21, 2025. The statement confirmed that Keum’s exclusive contract with the agency and the group has been concluded, marking a significant restructuring for the group’s future activities.
This announcement comes after a period of uncertainty, as Keum had already been on an extended hiatus from group activities for several months.
Contract Termination Following Personal Hiatus
The formal termination of Keum’s contract and his departure from EPEX on November 21 follows a notable period of absence from the public eye.
Also Read: EPEX’s Keum Temporarily Steps Away from Group Activities Due to Personal Reasons
Keum had been on a temporary hiatus since May [2025], with the agency initially citing “personal reasons” for his break from the group’s schedule.
While temporary hiatuses are not uncommon in the highly demanding K-pop industry—often allowing idols to address health issues or personal matters—an extended hiatus sometimes signals underlying issues that may lead to a permanent parting of ways, as is the case here.
The move to formally conclude the exclusive contract suggests that, following his personal hiatus, a mutual decision was reached between Keum and C9 Entertainment that continuing under the established agreement was no longer viable for either party.
The phrasing that the contract has been “concluded” often points to an amicable, structured exit, rather than a sudden or contentious termination.
This structured approach allows the agency to manage the transition and provide clarity to the fanbase (known as Zenith) regarding the group’s future structure.
EPEX Continues as a Seven-Member Group
With Keum’s departure, EPEX will immediately transition into a seven-member formation.
Debuting in June 2021, the group quickly established a unique identity in the competitive fourth-generation K-pop scene, known for their powerful concepts and synchronized performances.
The loss of a member, especially one who had been part of the group’s foundational lineup, necessitates a creative and logistical reorganization.
C9 Entertainment has confirmed that the remaining seven members—Wish, Keum, Mu, A-Min, Baekseung, Jeff, and Ayden—will be continuing their scheduled activities.
This means that future releases, performances, and public appearances will feature the new seven-member configuration.
The agency’s prompt announcement following the conclusion of the contract is aimed at minimizing confusion and providing the remaining members and the fandom with a clear direction.
A reduction in the group size requires adjustments to choreography, vocal line distribution, and overall group presentation, which the members and agency will now undertake to ensure EPEX maintains its strong performance quality.
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The decision for EPEX to continue signifies the agency’s commitment to the remaining members and the group’s brand.
While the official statement detailing the background to the “personal reasons” and the contract conclusion was not fully provided, C9 Entertainment’s assurance that EPEX will carry on confirms that the group’s trajectory will not be halted by the change in personnel.
Fans will now look to the remaining members’ activities for a sense of continuity and support during this transition period.
