Chronology of Alleged Bullying Case Involving Lee Hyunjoo ex-APRIL, Statement from Her Younger Brother - Official Statement from DSP Media

Kapanlagi.com - The online world was shocked by a controversial post written by a netizen claiming to be the sibling of former member APRIL, Lee Hyunjoo. They stated that Hyunjoo left the girl group under DSP Media because she experienced bullying within the team.

After the appearance of the claims made by Hyunjoo's sibling, other APRIL members were immediately dragged into the allegations of oppression. Therefore, DSP Media released an official statement regarding the issue.

1. The Beginning of the Case

© DSP Media

It has been known that Hyunjoo left APRIL to pursue her acting career. However, Hyunjoo's sibling revealed something different and shocking.

"My sister is known to have left APRIL to focus on her acting career, but that's not true. She was harassed and bullied within the group, and suffered panic attacks and difficulty breathing. In the end, she even attempted suicide," wrote Hyunjoo's sibling in their post, as reported by Koreaboo.

2. Official Statement from DSP Media

With the escalating case stemming from the claims made by Hyunjoo's sister, DSP Media is not staying silent and is explaining this issue from their perspective. DSP Media clarifies that Lee Hyunjoo had long wanted to become an actress but agreed to join and debut with APRIL.

Furthermore, they state that Lee Hyunjoo faced difficulties due to mental and physical pressure during promotions and was unable to fully participate in group activities. Eventually, Hyunjoo expressed her desire to withdraw from the group.

3. Always Fully Supporting

DSP Media also explains that they have actively supported Hyunjoo in her efforts to become an actress and idol since her departure from APRIL.

"We fully support Lee Hyunjoo's pursued acting career. Additionally, when she wanted to promote as an idol again, we also support her efforts. It is true that the company supports her whenever and wherever possible, with various activities in various fields even after she left the group," writes DSP Media.

4. Release of Additional Statement

The official statement from DSP Media does not alleviate the case that has been widely discussed by netizens regarding Hyunjoo. Therefore, they have made an additional statement addressing various issues related to this case, including allegations of Jeon Somin from KARD's involvement as the former leader of the group and specific accusations focused on Lee Naeun.

The agency explained that Jeon Somin worked hard during promotions as the leader of APRIL and never had any problems with specific members.

"Jeon Somin has been a trainee for a very long time since she joined at the age of 16. After debuting in APRIL, she has been working hard as a member. It is not true that she bullied or specifically disliked certain members. Jeon Somin and Kim Chaewon spent 3 years together as trainees, so they are very close. There is no reason for them to try to become closer," DSP Media stated.

5. Clarification of Misunderstanding

Regarding the post about the members fighting over Hyunjoo's tumbler, DSP Media explained that it was a minor misunderstanding that has been resolved.

"There were about 40-50 tumblers in the dorm at that time. One member at some point filled it with soybean broth and brought it to the practice room to eat with other members. When Lee Hyunjoo explained that it was her tumbler, Lee Naeun immediately apologized and that was the extent of the incident. The members, including Lee Hyunjoo, share things," DSP Media continued.

6. Evidence of Old CCTV Footage

Through their additional statement, DSP Media stated that they have reviewed the old CCTV footage that is said to be evidence of Lee Hyun Joo being bullied. However, they did not find any incidents that were alleged through the online post by Hyunjoo's sibling.

"The company has examined the CCTV footage related to the allegations that Lee Hyunjoo was a victim, and we did not find anything that indicates such incidents. We have also shared this truth with Lee Hyunjoo and her mother," DSP Media revealed.

7. Take Firm Action

Closing a lengthy official statement, DSP Media urges the public to refrain from spreading unconfirmed false rumors. They will take legal action against anyone who accuses APRIL members, spreads baseless rumors, or uses photoshopped images to create false narratives.

"Shortly after the unpleasant issue between APRIL members and Lee Hyunjoo was revealed, there were posts discussing the incident that had not been verified as if it were the truth. Once again, APRIL members suffered because of these posts. We will not only take strong legal action against posts and the dissemination of unconfirmed false information, but we will also take action against photoshopped images circulating on community sites. Thank you," concluded DSP Media.

(kor/rsp)