An insider shared about INFINITE's comeback plans.
On August 30, Woollim Entertainment officially announced that Hoya has decided to leave the group and the agency. INFINITE will now be promoting as a group of 6.
An insider provided details on the boy group's upcoming plans. To Xports News, the insider stated, "First, the members will have to complete their individual schedules in order to prepare for a new album. They'll try to make a comeback before the year ends, however, the specific time period has not been set."
Meanwhile, Hoya, who has starred in the dramas 'Reply 1997', 'Glowing Office', and more, is expected to expand his acting career under a new agency.
Following news of his departure from INFINITE and Woolim Entertainment, Hoya has posted a handwritten letter on his personal Instagram account.
His letter is as below:
“Hello, this is Hoya.
“First, I would like to apologize for causing people to worry due to the sudden news. I would also like to apologize to fans who must be tired due to waiting for a long time.
“I ask for understanding for not being able to say anything for a long time. I wanted to let you know in person but thought that an official announcement should come first.
“I have worried a lot about what words to use to convey my feelings.
“First and foremost, my fellow INFINITE members.
“To Sunggyu, Dongwoo, Woohyun, Sungyeol, Myungsoo, and Sungjong, I would like to apologize and thank once again through my writing.
“I know very well that I was able to receive undeserved love from our Inspirits despite my many shortcomings because I was with INFINITE members. I will not forget this in the future as well.
“I will sincerely cherish the warm hearts of Inspirits’ love.
“I would like to once again sincerely thank founder Lee Jong Yeob and all Woollim employees for fully supporting me when I had nothing and helped build me up to where I am today.
“Moving forward I will be modest and work hard.
“I apologize for worrying many people.
On August 30, Woollim Entertainment announced that Hoya will be leaving INFINITE.
The agency wrote, “INFINITE member Hoya’s exclusive contract with us ended on June 9, 2017 after being with us for the past seven years.”
They explained that while discussing contract renewals in June, he decided to take another path to pursue his dreams, and the company and members decided to respect his decision. “As it was a careful decision that had to be made, a lot of time was spent for consideration,” they continued.
Woollim revealed, “With the exception of Hoya, INFINITE members Kim Sungkyu, Jang Dongwoo, Nam Woohyun, Lee Sungyeol, L, and Lee Sungjong have completed contract renewals. The agency is working on reorganizing as a six-member group, and we plan on actively supporting their group and individual activities as we are now.”
They ended, “Lastly, we ask for your unchanging support for the futures of the six members of INFINITE and Hoya.”
Vocals, visuals, aegyo, dancing, impersonations… there are many talents that come in handy when you’re a K-pop idol. But one that is rare and often overlooked is the ability to beatbox. After all, it’s pretty cool (and useful!) when idols can lay down a beat whenever and wherever they want — no music necessary. So prepare to be amazed by the crazy sounds, explosive beats, and wild rhythms of these 14 beatboxing pros.
3. INFINITE’s Dongwoo
Dongwoo’s beatbox includes resonating bass sounds that are dripping with swag. Just check out this video of him giving Hoya a little something to dance to: