Gunil Denies Agreeing To Leave Xdinary Heroes

Former Xdinary Heroes member Gunil has issued his first direct apology through his legal representative since the controversy over inappropriate remarks toward fans and his departure from the group. However, he pushed back on JYP Entertainment’s earlier claim that his contract was terminated “by mutual agreement,” stating he never agreed to it.

On August 20th, Gunil’s legal representative, attorney Sung Jae Hwan of law firm Juwon, released an official statement saying, “We deeply apologize for the concern this situation has caused ExdinaryHeroes fans and the members of Xdinary Heroes.”

Gunil expressed regret over the disappointment and heartbreak felt by fans who have long supported him, and said he also felt sorry for putting a burden on the members he worked alongside due to his carelessness, adding that he personally conveyed his apology to them.

He also acknowledged wrongdoing over the controversial remarks themselves. His side stated, “Using inappropriate language in a private setting cannot be justified for any reason,” adding that at the time, he was under considerable psychological strain from certain online posts and privacy violations that had crossed a line, and that he had vented his feelings during a private phone call.

At the same time, he drew a clear line against some of the allegations that spread online. His legal representative stated that after reviewing the relevant records, the claim that Gunil had constantly and repeatedly used abusive language or criticized fans was not true. They also refuted claims that he had bad-mouthed fellow members or had been seeing someone else while in a relationship, calling both untrue.

A difference in stance between Gunil and JYP Entertainment also emerged regarding his departure and the termination of his exclusive contract. JYP Entertainment had previously stated on August 13th, after the controversy broke out, that it had “deeply recognized the gravity of the situation and had thorough discussions with the artist from multiple angles,” and decided that “it would be difficult to continue team activities together, and agreed to terminate the exclusive contract by mutual consent.” Gunil was also reported to have left the team that same day. However, in this latest statement, his side claimed, “The artist did not voluntarily leave the group, and did not agree to the termination of the exclusive contract,” adding that given the circumstances and nature of the matter, there is no clear justification for the termination.

His side clarified that this does not mean he intends to immediately enter into a legal dispute with the agency.

The controversy began after an online user claiming to be Gunil’s ex-girlfriend posted allegations, including recordings and messages, claiming he had used abusive language toward a fan during a private call. It grew as further posts alleging he bad-mouthed members and was involved with other people while dating spread online.

JYP Entertainment ultimately announced the termination of Gunil’s exclusive contract and his departure from the team on August 13th. Following his sudden departure, Xdinary Heroes was reorganized as a five-member group, and their previously scheduled appearance at Japan’s “Summer Sonic 2026” and a solo fan meeting planned for September were both canceled.

Regarding whether legal action would be taken against the person who posted the allegations, Gunil’s side stated that while the post contained a number of false claims that could warrant civil and criminal action, they had decided not to pursue legal action for now, in accordance with Gunil’s own wishes.

Gunil once again apologized to fans and members, saying he hopes fans will come to understand his sincerity.

Source: (A)