On June 30, former (G)I-DLE member Soojin uploaded a photo on her newly opened Instagram account.

In her recently shared photo, Soojin captivates viewers with her enchanting gaze, adorned in a stylish white beret and T-shirt complemented by sunglasses. Her doll-like visuals immediately caught the attention of fans on various online community platforms,

The image quickly circulated across various online communities, including Theqoo and Nate Pann, sparking a range of reactions from netizens. Some expressed curiosity, wondering if this marked the beginning of a comeback or the former idol's return to the music scene. Others simply expressed delight in seeing her again.

In 2021, Soojin became embroiled in controversy following allegations of school violence raised by a former schoolmate. 

Initially, Soojin denied the accusations, but when it was revealed that even actor Seo Shin Ae had been a victim of bullying during their school days, a significant wave of backlash ensued. 

Consequently, Soojin departed from (G)I-DLE later that year, and her exclusive contract with Cube Entertainment was terminated, marking her departure from the entertainment industry. 

Soojin subsequently filed a criminal complaint against the individual who made the accusations, but the court ultimately ruled the accused person as 'not guilty.'

Nevertheless, Soojin's legal representative released a statement affirming, "In her first year of middle school, Seo Soojin was acquitted by the School Violence Countermeasures Autonomous Committee and was recognized as a victim of coercion from her seniors." This statement aimed to emphasize her innocence once again.

The allegations of school violence cast a shadow over (G)I-DLE, resulting in the group going on hiatus for a period of time. 

In an interview with Mnet in March of last year, group leader Soyeon candidly expressed her concerns, stating, "You know. If one of the protagonists in the cartoons or the movie is suddenly changed or he/she suddenly disappears, that doesn't really happen. Let's say if one of the protagonists has to quit, I actually think that drama wouldn't become a hit (popular)." She elaborated, "So, I thought that it would be hard for us to make it big again."

In April, rumors of Soojin being spotted in public began circulating on various online platforms. An eyewitness claimed to have encountered her on the street, where she briefly removed her mask and greeted fans who recognized her. 

Alongside this account, an accompanying photo showcased a woman resembling Soojin standing alongside her friend, captured from behind.