In a press release today, Source Music addressed the swirling rumors surrounding LE SSERAFIM's Kim Chaewon, vehemently denying any involvement in a drug scandal.

The agency clarified that the idol is currently recovering from the aftereffects of a flu and is expected to resume her schedule on November 1st.

The statement follows recent speculations about several high-profile celebrities being implicated in a supposed "drug gate."

The reactions from those on the alleged list have been described as "absurd" by their respective agencies.

The mere association with such a controversy is acknowledged to have a significant impact on the public image of those involved, prompting a strong stance from the implicated celebrities.

Kim Chaewon, who had temporarily halted her activities due to Type A influenza, found herself at the center of unverified rumors circulating in the entertainment industry.

The artist, still focused on her recovery, was reportedly taken aback by her name being linked to the scandal.

Despite the police withholding the identities of the individuals being investigated, unconfirmed reports, primarily through messengers and social media, hinted at the involvement of a famous girl group member, suspected to be Kim Chaewon.

Upon learning of the rumors, Source Music repeatedly confirmed that the allegations were baseless and not applicable to Kim Chaewon.

Netizens took to various platforms to express their support for the idol:

Chaewon-ah, let's sue."

"Why are we writing articles about rumors now? Are people crazy?"

"People are losing their minds. LE SSERAFIM's haters seriously ㅡㅡ"

"Huh? She must've been so shocked."

"Wow, those trash making up rumors are real disgusting."

Fans were quick to defend Kim Chaewon, pointing out her continuous hard work over the past two years and expressing disbelief at the rumors.

Many criticized the spread of unverified information and the impact it can have on the well-being of the individuals involved.

As the entertainment industry grapples with the fallout from these rumors, the focus now shifts to the affected celebrities and their agencies as they navigate the aftermath of this scandal.

Source(1)

After Kim Ji Won’s unexpected departure from Salt Entertainment, it now seems that Kim Seon Ho will also be leaving the agency.

Both stars are reportedly headed to High Zium Studio, the agency run by Song Joong Ki, and this news is stirring up plenty of buzz. What’s behind this wave of talent moving away from Salt?

Kim Ji Won, who signed with Salt Entertainment in 2020, made headlines in June 2022 when she suddenly announced her departure after finishing the drama My Liberation Notes. While the official statement wished her the best, many insiders speculated about the reasons behind the split.

Some rumors suggested that Kim Ji Won was unhappy with her role in the drama, especially for being overshadowed by her co-star, Son Seok Koo. Others believed that Salt made mistakes by trusting writer Park Hae Young too much when signing the project.

Now, just two years after Kim Ji Won’s departure, Kim Seon Ho is reportedly set to follow in her footsteps and leave Salt Entertainment for High Zium Studio. Although High Zium has denied confirming any contract details, insiders believe it’s almost certain that the actor will make the move.

For Salt, this is a huge blow, especially since Kim Seon Ho has become a popular star in Southeast Asia, which helped the agency rake in significant revenue.

An entertainment insider shared, "Salt worked hard to build connections in Southeast Asia for Kim Seon Ho, thanks to Park Shin Hye’s network. It was a successful partnership, but now it looks like they’re parting ways."

Salt’s connections in countries like Thailand, the Philippines, and Indonesia were largely due to Park Shin Hye’s previous fan meetings and events there. These efforts helped Kim Seon Ho rise to stardom in Southeast Asia, but Salt couldn’t secure a contract extension.

Salt also managed to protect Kim Seon Ho’s reputation during his 2021 scandal with weathercaster Choi Young Ah.

After Choi Young Ah’s false claims about pregnancy and abortion, public opinion shifted in Kim Seon Ho’s favor. The agency’s handling of the situation earned them praise, but despite their efforts, they couldn’t keep their rising star.

A manager with years of experience in the industry shared, "The loyalty of extending contracts for 1-2 years after a 7-year contract ends is disappearing. Agencies are under pressure due to the economic downturn, and more companies are being listed, making it harder to maintain these long-term relationships."

With Kim Seon Ho and Kim Ji Won leaving, many are wondering if Salt can bounce back from this blow or if High Zium Studio will continue to attract more talent from under their noses.

Source: [1]