The K-pop industry was met with somber news today, March 6, 2026, as WAKEONE and KLAP Entertainment officially announced the departure of Seo Youngeun from the girl group Kep1er.
This transition marks a significant shift for the group, which was formed through the Mnet survival program Girls Planet 999 in 2021.
Following the announcement, Kep1er will be reorganized into a six-member unit, continuing their journey with the remaining members: Choi Yu-jin, Xiaoting, Kim Chae-hyun, Kim Da-yeon, Hikaru, and Huening Bahiyyih.
The decision comes after a prolonged hiatus for Youngeun, during which fans had been hopeful for her return, only to be met with the reality of her exit from the collective team.
The Road to a Difficult Decision
The announcement of Youngeun’s departure follows an eight-month hiatus that began in July 2025.
At that time, her agencies shared that she was experiencing symptoms of health deterioration and, upon medical advice, needed a period of absolute rest and stabilization.
During this time, Youngeun was notably absent from the group’s seventh mini-album, Bubble Gum, and their subsequent concert tours.
Fans, known as Keplians, remained supportive, often sending messages of encouragement throughout her absence, which made today’s news particularly emotional for the fandom.
In their formal statement, the agencies emphasized that the choice was made with the utmost care.
“Our company and Seo Youngeun have engaged in in-depth discussions about her future activities over a long period, and after careful consideration, we have made this decision,” the statement read.
The agencies further elaborated that the remaining Kep1er members were involved in the process and fully supported their teammate’s choice.
“The Kep1er members, based on mutual trust, respect Seo Young-eun’s decision and convey their encouragement,” the announcement continued, highlighting the deep bond that has remained between the members despite the physical distance during her recovery period.
Honoring a Legacy and Looking Forward
Seo Youngeun has been a vital part of Kep1er’s identity since their debut in January 2022. Known for her powerful vocals, versatile dance skills, and infectious personality, she played a major role in the group’s rise to international prominence.
From the debut hit “WA DA DA” to their more recent releases, her presence helped define the group’s “global girl group” status.
The agencies expressed their heartfelt gratitude for her contributions, stating,
“We deeply appreciate Seo Young-eun, who devoted herself with sincerity and passion as a team member, and our company will sincerely support her future endeavors.”
While Youngeun moves forward on a new path-reportedly returning to her original agency, Biscuit Entertainment- Kep1er is preparing to open a “new chapter.”
The group has faced several lineup changes since their initial project term concluded in 2024, including the previous departures of members Mashiro and Yeseo.
However, the six remaining members have pledged to stay dedicated to their music and their fans.
The agencies promised that:
“Kep1er will embark on a new chapter with a 6-member system. We will do our best to repay Keplians with better music and stages.”
A Community in Support
The reaction from the global fan community has been a mix of sadness and unwavering support.
On social media platforms and fan forums, Keplians have trended messages of thanks to Youngeun for her hard work over the past four years.
Many have pointed out the difficulties she faced, including the tragic loss of her father in 2023, and praised her resilience in continuing as an idol as long as she did.
As Kep1er moves forward as a six-piece ensemble, the focus remains on the health and happiness of all the artists involved.
Fans are now looking toward the group’s next steps, hoping that this reorganization will allow the remaining members to flourish while giving Youngeun the space she needs to pursue her own future.
The agency concluded their notice by asking for the fans’ continued devotion:
“We kindly ask for fans’ warm encouragement and unwavering love for Seo Young-eun, who will embark on a new path, and for Kep1er, which will continue its activities as a 6-member group.”
