[Exclusive] FNC States "Jimin Withdraws from AOA and Suspends Entertainment Activities"

AOA Jimin. [Photo by Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Intern Reporter Park Hee-eun] Jimin, leader of group AOA, is suspending her activities in the entertainment industry.

Agency FNC Entertainment stated, "We sincerely apologize for causing concern to many people due to the ongoing issues involving our artist Jimin. Jimin has decided to withdraw from AOA and cease all entertainment activities effective immediately."

They added, "We also deeply acknowledge our responsibility in this situation and will take thorough measures in artist management. We apologize once again for causing worry due to these unfortunate events."

Earlier on the 3rd, former AOA member and actress Kwon Mina revealed on her SNS that she had been continuously bullied by Jimin, a fellow group member. She stated that because of Jimin, she left AOA and even attempted extreme measures.

In response, Jimin personally apologized to Kwon Mina and posted an apology on SNS. However, as Kwon Mina criticized the manner of Jimin’s apology and continued to disclose further allegations, the controversy persisted.

The following is the full official statement from the agency.

This is FNC Entertainment.

First, we sincerely apologize for causing concern to many people due to the ongoing issues involving our artist Jimin.

Jimin has decided to withdraw from AOA and cease all entertainment activities effective immediately.

We also deeply acknowledge our responsibility in this situation and will take thorough measures in artist management. We apologize once again for causing worry due to these unfortunate events.