On October 29th, APRIL member Hyunjoo personally announced that she would be leaving the group in order to focus on her acting career.
The group was formed in 2015 by DSP Media with the intention of becoming the next KARA. After their debut, the girls went on to enjoy a fair amount of success on the charts, even winning the “Female Rookie of the Year” award during the 2016 Korean Entertainment Art Awards.
Originally six members, Hyunjoo is now the second member to leave. She announced her decision on the group’s fan cafe, posting a handwritten letter to fans.
“…I am writing this letter because I have something to cautiously tell you all today.
During my break, I was able to reflect on the past year, and I had a chance to contemplate a lot on my dreams and [what I’d like to do in the future].
I had my share of ambition and determination to stand in front of you, my fans, as both a singer and an actress, and I tried to work hard towards that dream… But I found that preparing for both took a toll on both my mental and physical health.
During this time of contemplation, I decided to concentrate on my acting path, which has been my dream since I was young. So I am leaving April to take on a new endeavor as I dream of a future as actress Lee Hyun Joo.
Recently, I was fortunate enough to get an opportunity to appear [as an actress] in a good work, and that work will be the beginning of me presenting to you actress Lee Hyun Joo. I have received so much love and support from you through April, and I will not forget those memories but cherish them!
I will be [someone] who gives her all whenever and wherever, so that I can grow [and make you proud].
My heart hurts thinking about our Fineapples who must be very confused and shocked today, but I hope you will think of it as a means of me showing you a better version of myself. I hope all of us can always enjoy ourselves and be happy!
Then, please amply support and love our April members and me, Lee Hyun Joo~ Fineapples~ thank you, love you~ <3”
(*Translation provided by Soompi.)
After her announcement, a DSP Media source confirmed the news, saying she would in fact be leaving the group to focus on acting, but that they would be adding a new member to APRIL.
What do you think of the news? Check out Hyunjoo’s full, handwritten letter below.
