THE BOYZ’s Ju Haknyeon Temporarily Halts Activities Amid Back Condition
On June 16, 2025, IST Entertainment announced that Ju Haknyeon, one of the main vocalists and visual members of the rising K-pop group THE BOYZ, will be temporarily suspending all group-related activities due to a diagnosis of lumbar disc stenosis. The unexpected news has sent ripples through the global fan community and industry watchers alike, as the group prepares for its highly anticipated second album promotions and world tour encore concerts.
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Ju Haknyeon’s hiatus comes at a crucial juncture for THE BOYZ, who have rapidly ascended to international prominence over the past two years. The decision, communicated by IST Entertainment, underscores the agency’s commitment to prioritizing the health and well-being of its artists. Fans worldwide have responded with an outpouring of support and concern, reflecting the member’s deep bond with his audience and the group’s growing influence in the K-pop landscape.
1. Background on THE BOYZ
Formed in December 2017 by IST Entertainment, THE BOYZ debuted with twelve members and quickly garnered attention for their intricate choreography, tight vocal harmonies, and high-energy performances. Over the course of several comeback releases—most notably “Bloom Bloom” (2020), “Thriller” (2022), and their recent breakthrough global single “Neo City Lights” (2024)—the group has secured numerous music show wins, charted on international platforms, and sold out venues across Asia, Europe, and North America.
Ju Haknyeon, known for his striking visuals, emotive singing style, and personable stage presence, has been an integral part of the group’s identity. His contributions to vocal layering in ballads and midtempo tracks have received critical acclaim, while his fan-favorite moments during live stages often highlight his versatility as a performer.
2. Ju Haknyeon’s Journey and Health Challenges
Throughout his career, Ju Haknyeon has maintained a rigorous schedule that includes recording sessions, choreography rehearsals, variety show appearances, and fan meet-and-greets. While the demanding nature of K-pop idol life can take a toll on physical health, it was only recently that the severity of his back pain prompted a series of medical evaluations.
– Initial Symptoms: According to industry insiders, Haknyeon first experienced intermittent lower back discomfort during the group’s “Neo City Lights” world tour in early 2024. The pain, initially attributed to muscle fatigue and the repetitive strain of dance practice, was managed with physical therapy and targeted rest.
– Worsening Condition: By late 2024, the discomfort had escalated to sharp, shooting pains radiating down his legs, leading to difficulty in prolonged practice sessions. Haknyeon reportedly sought further medical consultation, resulting in a diagnosis of lumbar disc stenosis in May 2025.
3. Medical Diagnosis Explained: Lumbar Disc Stenosis
Disc stenosis, also known as spinal canal narrowing, is a condition in which the spaces within the spine become constricted, exerting pressure on the spinal cord and nerve roots. In lumbar disc stenosis, this narrowing occurs in the lower back, leading to symptoms such as:
• Chronic back pain and stiffness
• Radiating leg pain (sciatica)
• Numbness or weakness in the lower extremities
• Difficulty standing or walking for extended periods
For performing artists like Haknyeon, the condition can be particularly debilitating, as it interferes with the core movements essential to dance routines and stage performances. Treatment protocols often involve a combination of anti-inflammatory medications, targeted physical therapy focused on core strengthening and flexibility, and—if necessary—surgical intervention to decompress the affected nerves.
4. IST Entertainment’s Official Statement
In the announcement released on June 16, IST Entertainment conveyed the following message:
“We regret to inform our fans that Ju Haknyeon will be temporarily suspending all activities for his health and full recovery. He has been diagnosed with lumbar disc stenosis after experiencing persistent back pain. As a company, we deeply apologize for any concern or disappointment this news may cause. We ask for your understanding and continued support as Haknyeon embarks on his medical treatment and rehabilitation. His health and well-being remain our top priority. We will provide updates on his condition and recovery progress through official channels.”
The statement further emphasized that Haknyeon would refrain from any strenuous movements, live performances, or promotional events until cleared by medical professionals. IST Entertainment also issued an apology to fans and stakeholders who had been looking forward to the group’s upcoming comeback and tour activities.
5. Impact on Album Promotions and World Tour Encore
THE BOYZ’s new album, slated for release on June 25, 2025, represents a significant milestone in their discography. The record features collaborations with international producers and marks a stylistic evolution incorporating elements of synth-pop, R&B, and rock.
Originally, all members were scheduled to participate in a series of live showcases, music show appearances (including M Countdown, Music Bank, and Inkigayo), and a fan-oriented world tour encore leg beginning in July 2025. With Haknyeon’s hiatus, the group has announced the following adjustments:
• Live Showcases: Performances to proceed as a ten-member lineup, with choreography and vocal parts redistributed among remaining members.
• Music Show Appearances: THE BOYZ will perform on scheduled broadcasts; pre-recorded segments may include Haknyeon’s recorded vocals where feasible.
• World Tour Encore: Dates in Tokyo, Seoul, and Los Angeles will continue, with possible setlist modifications to accommodate a reduced roster.
Management has reassured concertgoers that the group is making every effort to maintain the quality and energy of their performances despite the temporary lineup change.
6. Fan Reactions and Community Support
The K-pop fandom, known for its passionate and dedicated support, quickly mobilized across social media platforms in response to the news:
• Twitter (“X”): Hashtags such as #GetWellSoonHaknyeon and #THEBOYZFamily trended worldwide, with fans sharing messages of encouragement and artwork celebrating his recovery journey.
• Reddit: Threads on r/kpop and r/the_boyz saw thousands of comments offering empathy, medical insights, and personal anecdotes about overcoming similar back conditions.
• Fan Cafés and Weverse: Posts expressing gratitude for the agency’s transparency and pledges to continue supporting Haknyeon’s solo and group activities during his hiatus.
Many fans highlighted the importance of mental health support for idols undergoing medical treatments, calling for increased awareness and resources within the industry. Messages from international fan communities also underscored K-pop’s global reach and the shared concern across different cultures.
7. Industry Perspective
Health-related hiatuses among idols are not unprecedented in the K-pop sector. Over the past decade, several high-profile artists have taken breaks to address physical and mental health issues, including:
• G-Dragon (BigBang): Multiple absences due to ankle ligament injuries and mental fatigue.
• Wendy (Red Velvet): Facial injuries sustained during a rehearsal, leading to a year-long recovery.
• Lay (EXO): Disciplined hiatus for stress and exhaustion.
Such breaks, while disruptive to scheduled promotions, often result in enhanced public appreciation for the artists’ dedication and the industry’s responsibility to safeguard performer welfare. Executives and talent managers typically respond by revising rehearsal schedules, incorporating more comprehensive medical check-ups, and developing strategic content releases (e.g., pre-recorded interviews, curated playlists) to maintain fan engagement.
Analysts predict that THE BOYZ’s label may adopt similar measures, including more flexible scheduling and incremental comebacks once Haknyeon’s condition stabilizes.
8. Looking Ahead: Recovery and Return
Medical practitioners recommend a phased rehabilitation plan for lumbar disc stenosis, combining:
• Physical Therapy: Core stabilization exercises, gentle stretching, and hydrotherapy to improve posture and reduce nerve pressure.
• Lifestyle Modifications: Ergonomic adjustments for daily activities, controlled limits on practice durations, and enhanced rest periods.
• Monitoring and Assessment: Regular MRI scans and neurological evaluations to track healing progression.
Should Haknyeon respond well to treatment, industry insiders project a potential return to group activities by the fourth quarter of 2025. In the interim, fans can expect periodic updates via IST Entertainment’s official website and social media channels.
9. Conclusion
Ju Haknyeon’s temporary hiatus highlights the rigorous demands placed on K-pop idols and the critical need for health-focused management within the entertainment industry. While THE BOYZ navigates this unexpected challenge, the collective support from fans, peers, and professionals underscores a community committed to the well-being of its artists.
As the group proceeds with ten members for their upcoming album promotions and tour events, fans worldwide remain steadfast in their encouragement, eager to celebrate Haknyeon’s recovery and eventual return to the stage. In a landscape driven by live performance and relentless schedules, this moment serves as a poignant reminder that even global superstars must prioritize self-care and sustainable pacing in their artistic journeys.
Sources and Further Reading
• Original Announcement – IST Entertainment official channels
• Koreaboo: TheBoyz Goes Viral: Ju Hak-nyeon’s Sudden Halt in Activities (June 16, 2025)
https://www.koreaboo.com/news/theboyz-goes-viral-ju-hak-nyeon-sudden-halt-in-activities/
• Soompi: The Boyz’s Ju Hak-nyeon Halts All Activities Due to Disc Stenosis (January 28, 2023)
https://www.soompi.com/article/1626829wpp/the-boyzs-ju-haknyeon-halts-all-activities-due-to-disc-stenosis-to-sit-out-upcoming-comeback-and-concerts
• Allkpop: The Boyz’s Ju Hak-nyeon to Take Hiatus Due to Back Issues (November 2023)
https://www.allkpop.com/article/2023/11/the-boyz-ju-haknyeon-to-take-hiatus-due-to-back-issues
• Reddit r/kpop Discussion: Ju Hak-nyeon (2014)
https://www.reddit.com/r/kpop/comments/1lcgqn8/ju_haknyeon_the_boyz_to_temporarily_suspend/
• Reddit r/the_boyz Discussion: Haknyeon’s Air Time (May 2025)
https://www.reddit.com/r/the_boyz/comments/1ebyigd/haknyeons_air_time/