Band Jannabi faces backlash over collaboration with former member involved in school bullying.

The band Jannabi has come under fire again after it was revealed that they collaborated with former member Yoo Young Hyun, who had previously left the group following a school bullying scandal. The band issued a delayed apology only after fans discovered the collaboration and voiced their objections.

Recently, fans learned that Yoo Young Hyun, who departed in 2019 due to the scandal, had been working as a sound engineer for Jannabi. Fans expressed their dissatisfaction through critical posts, but the band initially remained silent.

After it was disclosed that Yoo had been collaborating with Jannabi for five years as a sound engineer, the band finally addressed the issue. Jannabi stated, “Yoo Young Hyun has been working as a sound engineer for live performances and rehearsals. We never intended to hide or cover up this matter. However, we refrained from discussing it openly due to ongoing issues related to Yoo’s past. We planned to address it once those matters were resolved.” They also warned of legal action against false information.

Fans reacted angrily to the initial statement, prompting a second apology. Jannabi’s management, Peponi Music, announced, “We will no longer involve Yoo Young Hyun as an audio assistant. We deeply regret our poor judgment and inadequate response, which have disappointed many fans.”

Leader Choi Jung Hoon also apologized, stating, “I regret bringing him into the team through improper processes and want to sincerely apologize.” However, he denied allegations that Yoo had participated in Jannabi’s music production.

Despite the apology, fans were further disheartened when Jannabi removed some of those who had posted critical comments from their official fanpage. This move added to the growing backlash.

In 2019, Yoo Young Hyun admitted to allegations of school bullying, leading to his departure from the band. At the time, Jannabi stated, “Yoo acknowledges his wrongdoing and is reflecting deeply. He has decided to take full responsibility, leave Jannabi, and take time for self-reflection. We sincerely apologize for this incident.”

However, the recent revelation that Yoo had continued working with the band behind the scenes, coupled with Jannabi’s delayed apology and inadequate handling of the situation, has left fans disappointed and angry. The band now faces mounting criticism and skepticism.

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