Asian Junkie Asian pop. Without discretion.
Amidst the investigation into the sexual harassment/assault and mistreatment scandal involving Gaeun (ex-MADEIN), 143 Entertainment has announced that CEO Lee Yong Hak will be stepping down from his position. Though they did so in a statement that still appears to do its best to shield him.
Regarding the recent unfortunate controversy, CEO Lee Yonghak is sincerely cooperating with the ongoing police investigation. However, in order to prevent further harm to our artists and staff caused by indiscriminate speculation and criticism without evidence, he has decided to step down from his position and focus on clarifying the facts.
As this was a difficult decision made to protect the artists and the company, we believe that all truths will be revealed in the course of the upcoming investigation.
Yeah, this is basically a superficial move, probably done with hopes that it’ll ease potential public pressure from any boycott campaigns against the company and group. Western outrage is unlikely to impact MADEIN at this point, but this could be a sign that they’ve gotten some pushback in Korea/Japan as well from the boycotters and thus are making this move to try and distance themselves.
Anyway, understandably since this is cynical lipservice, the fandom is not relenting.
Regarding 143 Entertainment’s Official Statement:
— The Seven Pact (@TheSevenPact) May 30, 2025
While we respect that each MABY may choose their own path, we strongly encourage fans not to step away from the boycott at this time.
Despite the announcement that CEO Lee Yonghak will step down, it’s important to note that… https://t.co/lbHX7xmtjk pic.twitter.com/Yagn3gAGLG
If you can, help out by adding to their voice through sending e-mails and what not to sponsors, as it’s maddening that this is not getting as much attention as it should considering what 143 themselves have already admitted happened in public statements.
Additionally concerning is the hiatus of member Suhye, who we’ve still not gotten more clarity on, and there’s valid worry that they’ll follow the Gaeun template with.
📢 According to officially available public records, Lee Yonghak formally resigned from his position as an internal director at 143 Entertainment on May 8, 2025. This resignation was officially registered that same day, confirming its legal effect.
— The Seven Pact (@TheSevenPact) May 30, 2025
However, 143 Entertainment…
Although not officially confirmed, multiple fans have reported sightings of Lee Yonghak at events held on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at HMV&BOOKS Shibuya, and Sunday, May 11, 2025, at Tower Records Shibuya — after his supposed resignation.
— The Seven Pact (@TheSevenPact) May 30, 2025
Furthermore, 143 Entertainment has deleted…
