On November 14, IST Entertainment announced through The Boyz’s official fan cafe that a Sasaeng (obsessive fan) had physically assaulted Sunwoo and a staff member. In the announcement, IST Entertainment stated, “We wish to address the repeated invasions of our artists’ privacy and the continuous threats to their safety.”
The agency stated, “There have been continuous illegal acts, such as unauthorized visits to locations related to the artists' private lives, including the company building, shops, and even their residence, as well as attending private schedules, spreading malicious rumors, persistently following members’ movements at airports—even on flights—taking photos and videos, following their vehicles, and illegally obtaining personal information to make contact. These acts have caused severe mental and material harm not only to the artists but also to their families, friends, and people around them.”
The agency further disclosed a recent incident on November 9, when Sunwoo encountered a Sasaeng hiding in the emergency stairwell on his apartment floor as he returned home.
IST Entertainment elaborated, "On November 9, an incident occurred in which The Boyz member Sunwoo, after finishing his schedule, was approached by a Sasaeng who had been hiding in the emergency stairwell on his apartment floor as he exited the elevator and was about to enter his front door. Feeling threatened by the Sasaeng, Sunwoo immediately reported the incident to our staff, who detained the intruder for trespassing and handed them over to the police.”
According to the agency, both Sunwoo and the staff member were repeatedly assaulted during an attempt to prevent the intruder from escaping. The Sasaeng was arrested on charges of trespassing and assault, and police investigations are currently underway. The label assured fans, "Sunwoo and the staff visited a nearby hospital for evaluation and treatment following the incident, and the agency is continuously monitoring their condition and taking necessary measures."
IST Entertainment also revealed that recently, a GPS tracker was found attached to the artist's vehicle parked outside the agency building. Additionally, another vehicle's tire had been deliberately damaged. Fortunately, both incidents were discovered early, preventing further harm. CCTV footage was retrieved, and police reports were filed.
The agency emphasized, “These actions are clear illegal acts that cause both mental and material harm to our artists and staff. We are responding with a zero-tolerance policy toward any violations of privacy or illegal behavior and will pursue strict legal action.”
IST Entertainment concluded by stating, “Given the increasing severity of these invasions of the artists’ rights, we are working with legal representatives to collect evidence and review documentation continually. We would like to reiterate that there will be no leniency or settlements in these matters.”
The Boyz debuted in December 2017 and gained recognition after winning Mnet’s survival program 'Road to Kingdom.' The group recently concluded their third world tour, 'Generation II,' in September.
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