K-Pop idols often retire due to major events or scandals. Some “retired” idols face criticism when attempting to return to the entertainment industry. Let’s explore a few of these cases.
1. Sunye (Formerly of Wonder Girls)
Sunye debuted as Wonder Girls’
leader in 2007 but left in 2012 to marry James Park, a Korean-Canadian. She also announced her move to Canada.
Her decision to step down from Wonder Girls sparked criticism. Many netizens labeled her a traitor, viewing her choice as selfish for leaving before completing her contract.
People assumed Sunye had retired to focus on family life. However, in 2018, she signed with Polaris Entertainment
for a comeback. This move faced backlash from those who still saw her as a betrayer.
After her solo debut in July 2022, Sunye continues to appear in Korean entertainment. She currently hosts a weekly live broadcast about parenting.
2. Park Yoochun (Formerly of TVXQ/JYJ)
Park Yoochun
retired from entertainment in 2019 following multiple scandals, including drug use and sexual harassment allegations.
In 2020, he shocked fans by announcing his return to celebrity status. He kicked off his comeback by releasing a new photobook.
Netizens criticized his quick return, believing he should have stayed retired due to his past controversies. Despite the backlash, Park Yoochun signed with a Thai agency
in 2021.
He held fan events in Japan to celebrate his 20-year anniversary. However, these events faced criticism for their high ticket prices.
3. T.O.P (BIGBANG)
T.O.P never officially announced retirement but hinted at it on social media. In 2017, he faced a scandal involving marijuana
use with Han Seo Hee.
This incident damaged T.O.P’s image among many netizens. He received negative comments on his social media posts in 2019.
Surprisingly, BIGBANG members,
including T.O.P, renewed their contracts with YG Entertainment
in 2020. This decision drew criticism from those who thought he had retired.
T.O.P later left YG Entertainment but participated in BIGBANG’s single “Still Life”. He has since pursued various business ventures, including wine and fashion.
On May 31, 2023, T.O.P
officially withdrew from BIGBANG.
4. Jung Joon Young
Jung Joon Young,
once a popular soloist, faced a career downfall due to his involvement in the Burning Sun Scandal. Though he didn’t officially retire, his prison sentence forced him out of the industry.
He received a five-year prison sentence
for his role in the scandal. Jung Joon Young was released from prison on March 19, 2024.
Since his release, reports suggest he’s attempting to return to the music industry. He’s been meeting with agencies and producers.
Recently, Jung Joon Young
was spotted at a club in France. He reportedly told girls there about his plans to open a Korean restaurant
