The Next Chapter for Idols Who Left Their Groups

The fate of idols who left their groups is often unclear, with some fading into obscurity while others attempt bold comebacks. Whether due to personal choices or public controversies, these idols’ post-group journeys reveal a deeper look into the K-pop industry’s complexities.

It’s not uncommon for K-pop idols to vanish from the spotlight after leaving their groups. Some make quiet exits due to personal matters, while others depart amid controversy. But what becomes of these idols who left their groups? Here’s where a few well-known former idols are today.

Jinny (formerly of NMIXX): From Shocking Exit to Acting Debut
One of the most surprising departures in recent years was Jinny’s exit from NMIXX. As a JYP trainee since 2016, Jinny had been introduced to the public long before the group’s official debut. She gained popularity quickly after NMIXX’s 2022 debut with “O.O,” but in a stunning move, JYP announced her departure that December with a vague statement.

The sudden exit came days after Jinny expressed her excitement for the group’s future, leaving fans to speculate about internal conflicts. She resurfaced in 2023 on Instagram and signed with UAP, managed jointly with Sublime. That September, Jinny debuted as a soloist with the mini album An Iron Hand in a Velvet Glove, which performed well, hitting #9 on the Circle Chart.

Despite her strong solo debut, Jinny went musically silent for two years. Then in late 2024, news broke that she would debut as an actress in the upcoming film Boy, a teen crime-romance set in the fictional town of Pogue. While it’s still unknown if acting will be her long-term path, Jinny’s evolution reflects the resilience of idols who left their groups.

Garam (formerly of LE SSERAFIM): Reemerging Through Theater
Garam’s exit from LE SSERAFIM was surrounded by one of the most intense scandals in recent K-pop history. Not long after the group’s debut, bullying allegations against her surfaced. HYBE eventually terminated her contract in 2022. Garam released a statement defending herself, then vanished from public life.

Over the next two years, she appeared only through school graduation photos, leading many to believe she had permanently stepped away from the industry. But in 2024, she reappeared on Instagram—this time listing “actor” as her profession. Fans took this as a sign of a possible shift into acting, especially after learning she was studying theater at Konkuk University. Although she hasn’t landed an official role yet, Garam seems to be carefully rebuilding her presence in entertainment.

Youngseo (formerly of ILLIT): A Quiet Exit, a Possible Comeback
Youngseo was a breakout favorite during HYBE’s R U Next?, the survival show that formed ILLIT. After finishing in second place and securing a spot in the debut group, her sudden removal shocked fans. HYBE offered little explanation, only noting her contract was ended after discussions.

Theories about her exit ranged from pre-debut rumors to possible behind-the-scenes issues. After ILLIT’s debut, Youngseo disappeared, only briefly appearing during her high school graduation in 2024.

In May 2025, two photos leaked online showing her in what seemed like a performance outfit. Although some thought she was at The Black Label, attention shifted toward HighUp Entertainment and W Entertainment—both of which are rumored to be preparing new girl groups. Some fans believe Youngseo may be joining one of them. If true, her return would mark a hopeful new chapter for one of the idols who left their groups before even debuting.

Leo (formerly of HYBE’s Trainee A): Reflecting After Controversy
Leo’s fall from grace was swift. Once a key member of HYBE’s Trainee A and a promising rapper, he was featured in BTS’s “Permission to Dance” MV and in pre-debut content. But a 2021 rap battle video titled Showdown included offensive and violent lyrics, triggering backlash. Despite removing the video and issuing apologies, Leo faced ongoing criticism.

He requested to leave Trainee A in 2022, citing mental stress. In a rare moment of transparency, Leo later posted a video sharing his experience as a trainee. He expressed gratitude but acknowledged the heavy emotional burden. Since then, Leo has remained out of the spotlight, and his future in entertainment remains uncertain.

The stories of idols who left their groups reveal the hidden struggles behind the glitz of K-pop. While some quietly fade away, others—like Jinny, Garam, and potentially Youngseo—are choosing to rebuild their careers in new ways. Whether through acting, solo projects, or rumored re-debuts, these artists are navigating the uncertain terrain of life after idol stardom.

Their journeys serve as a reminder that behind every polished stage performance is a real person dealing with pressures we often don’t see. And sometimes, the comeback stories are just as compelling as the original rise to fame. To catch the latest Korean Entertainment News, do check out the link below.