Fans are now trying to connect the dots after The Boyz’s Eric was seen wiping away tears on June 16, just hours before Ju Haknyeon’s hiatus was officially announced. At first, everyone thought Eric’s emotional moment was just him feeling the love from fans after a taping of Idol Radio. But with the recent scandal, it seems like something heavier was on his mind.
Eric greeted fans from his car window after finishing the shoot with DOUBLE ONE. What started as a sweet moment turned somber when he suddenly covered his face, clearly holding back tears. Now that we know Haknyeon’s scandal was happening simultaneously, fans are speculating that Eric was already aware of what was about to occur. The Idol Radio taping aired later that same night, after the departure news hit.
Haknyeon was removed from The Boyz after being linked with Japanese adult film actress Asuka Kirara. The group’s agency, One Hundred, expressed that his exit from the group was carefully discussed and agreed to protect The Boyz’s interests. Eric’s tears now read as a goodbye and a quiet heartbreak for a member he knew would be leaving.