9 K-pop groups where members left midway: From ENHYPEN to Stray Kids

Line-up changes are never easy in K-pop. A member leaving can come as a shock to fans and often raises questions about a group’s future. But over the years, many popular acts have shown that they can move forward and still succeed. The recent exit of Lee Heeseung from ENHYPEN has once again put the spotlight on how groups deal with such moments. Here’s a look at some well-known groups that continued their journey after losing a member:

1. ENHYPEN

ENHYPEN recently saw the departure of Lee Heeseung, reducing the group from seven to six members. The news left fans surprised, but BELIFT LAB has confirmed it will continue its activities while respecting his decision. Heeseung had been a key member since the group’s debut in 2020.

2. Stray Kids

Stray Kids debuted under JYP Entertainment in 2018 with nine members. In 2019, Woojin left citing personal reasons. Despite the sudden exit, the group resumed promotions quickly and went on to become one of the biggest global K-pop acts.

3. NewJeans

NewJeans saw a major shake-up in December 2025 when Danielle exited following the ADOR–Min Hee-Jin controversy. The situation escalated further with reports of a legal dispute, with the label seeking heavy compensation from the singer.

4. EXO

EXO faced one of K-pop’s most talked-about exit phases between 2014 and 2015. Kris, Luhan, and Tao left within a year, leading to legal battles with SM Entertainment. The group continued with nine members.

5. (G)I-DLE

(G)I-DLE (now I-DLE) became a five-member group after Soojin’s exit in 2021. She first went on hiatus following bullying allegations and officially left in August that year, later parting ways with Cube Entertainment. The group bounced back with successful releases.

6. LE SSERAFIM

Le Sserafim debuted in 2022 as six members, but Kim Ga-ram exited soon after debut due to school bullying accusations. The group continued as five members and gradually rebuilt its image through music and performances.

7. NMIXX

NMIXX lost member Jini in December 2022 shortly after debut. JYP Entertainment cited “personal reasons” and terminated her contract. She later rebranded as a solo artist, while the group continued as six members.

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8. iKON

iKON underwent a major change in 2019 when leader B.I left following allegations of attempting to purchase illegal drugs. He later issued an apology. The group continued promotions with six members.

9. Wonder Girls

Wonder Girls saw multiple lineup changes across their career. HyunA left early, Sunmi took a break and later returned, and the other members pursued different paths. Despite these shifts, the group reinvented itself before disbanding in 2017.

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