Hey ELF! Ever wondered what happened to the former members of Super Junior? Super Junior, the legendary K-pop group, has seen some changes in its lineup over the years. Let's dive into the stories of the members who once graced the Super Junior stage and find out where they are now. Understanding the journey of each member gives us a deeper appreciation for the evolution of Super Junior and the paths they've taken individually. We'll explore their reasons for leaving, their subsequent careers, and how they're remembered by fans. Whether you're a long-time ELF or new to the fandom, this exploration of Super Junior's history and its former members is sure to be interesting.

Hangeng: The First Departure

Hangeng, also known as Han Geng, was one of the original members of Super Junior and the only Chinese member in the group's early days. His departure from Super Junior and SM Entertainment in 2009 was a significant event, marked by legal battles and emotional farewells. Hangeng cited unfair contract terms and health issues as his primary reasons for leaving. The intense workload and limited freedom to pursue individual activities were major contributing factors. As the only Chinese member in a hugely popular Korean group, Hangeng faced unique challenges related to language barriers, cultural differences, and homesickness.

After leaving Super Junior, Hangeng returned to China and launched a successful solo career as a singer and actor. He released several albums, starred in numerous films and television dramas, and quickly became a household name in China. His post-Super Junior discography includes albums like “Geng Xin” and “Hope in the Darkness,” which showcased his evolving musical style. Notable acting roles include appearances in films like “My Kingdom” and “So Young.” His ability to transition from a K-pop idol to a successful actor and singer in China demonstrated his versatility and determination. Hangeng's departure opened up discussions about the treatment of foreign idols in the K-pop industry and the need for fair contracts and better support systems.

In recent years, Hangeng has continued to pursue his career in entertainment while also taking on entrepreneurial ventures. He has invested in various businesses and has become a prominent figure in the Chinese entertainment industry. Beyond his professional endeavors, Hangeng has also focused on his personal life. In 2019, he married actress Celina Jade, and they have since started a family. Hangeng's journey from a K-pop idol to a successful solo artist and entrepreneur is a testament to his resilience and talent. His contributions to Super Junior and his subsequent success in China have solidified his place as a significant figure in the entertainment industry.

Kibum: The Acting Path

Kibum was another prominent member of Super Junior known for his charming looks and acting potential. Although he remained officially a member of Super Junior for several years, he gradually became more focused on his acting career, leading to his eventual departure. Kibum's decision to pursue acting was driven by his passion for performing and his desire to explore different avenues in the entertainment industry. While he debuted as a singer, his heart was always set on acting, and he saw an opportunity to make a name for himself in that field.

During his time with Super Junior, Kibum took on several acting roles, appearing in dramas such as “Sharp 2” and “Snow Flower.” These roles allowed him to showcase his acting skills and gain recognition as a promising actor. However, as Super Junior's popularity soared, Kibum found it increasingly difficult to balance his activities as an idol with his acting aspirations. The demands of being in a top K-pop group, including rigorous training, album promotions, and concert tours, left him with little time to dedicate to his acting career.

In 2015, Kibum officially left Super Junior to fully pursue acting. Since then, he has appeared in various dramas and films, primarily in South Korea and China. While he hasn't achieved the same level of fame as some of his former bandmates, he has steadily built a career as an actor, taking on diverse roles that challenge and showcase his talent. His post-Super Junior projects include dramas like “I Love Lee Tae-ri” and films such as “The Old Days.” Kibum's journey reflects the challenges faced by idols who wish to transition into acting and the importance of pursuing one's passion. Despite the difficulties, he has remained committed to his craft and continues to work towards establishing himself as a successful actor. His story is a reminder that success can take different forms and that following one's heart is essential for personal fulfillment.

Kangin: Struggles and Departure

Kangin was known for his strong vocals and charismatic stage presence. However, his career with Super Junior was marked by controversies, which ultimately led to his departure from the group. Kangin's struggles with personal issues and public incidents cast a shadow over his career, impacting both himself and the group. The controversies surrounding Kangin included incidents involving drunk driving and altercations, which drew significant criticism from the public and the media. These incidents not only damaged his reputation but also affected Super Junior's image as a whole.

Following these incidents, Kangin took hiatuses from Super Junior to reflect on his actions and address his personal issues. However, the repeated controversies made it difficult for him to regain the trust of the public and his fans. The pressure and scrutiny took a toll on Kangin, and he eventually made the difficult decision to leave Super Junior in 2019. His departure was a mutual decision made after careful consideration of the impact his continued presence would have on the group.

After leaving Super Junior, Kangin has maintained a low profile. He has not been actively involved in the entertainment industry, choosing instead to focus on personal growth and self-reflection. While he has occasionally updated fans through social media, he has largely stayed out of the public eye. Kangin's story serves as a cautionary tale about the pressures of fame and the importance of personal responsibility. His departure from Super Junior marked the end of an era, and his absence is still felt by many fans. Despite the controversies, Kangin's contributions to Super Junior's music and performances are remembered by those who supported him throughout his career.

What This Means for Super Junior

The departure of Hangeng, Kibum, and Kangin undoubtedly had an impact on Super Junior. Each member brought unique talents and personalities to the group, and their absence was felt by both the remaining members and the fans. However, Super Junior has demonstrated remarkable resilience and has continued to thrive despite these changes. The remaining members have worked tirelessly to maintain the group's success, adapting to the new dynamics and continuing to release hit songs and albums. Super Junior's ability to evolve and adapt is a testament to their strong bond and their commitment to their fans.

Super Junior's longevity in the K-pop industry is a rare achievement, and their continued success is a result of their hard work, talent, and unwavering dedication. The group has explored various musical styles and has embraced new trends while staying true to their unique identity. Super Junior's concerts and performances continue to draw massive crowds, and their music continues to resonate with fans around the world. Despite the changes in the lineup, Super Junior remains one of the most influential and beloved K-pop groups of all time. Their story is an inspiration to aspiring artists and a reminder that with perseverance and dedication, anything is possible.

Final Thoughts

The former members of Super Junior have each embarked on their own unique journeys, pursuing different paths and exploring new opportunities. While they may no longer be part of Super Junior, their contributions to the group's success will always be remembered. Hangeng's successful solo career in China, Kibum's pursuit of acting, and Kangin's journey of self-reflection each tell a story of resilience, determination, and personal growth. Super Junior's ability to overcome challenges and continue to thrive is a testament to their strength and their unwavering commitment to their fans. As we look back on the group's history, it's important to remember and appreciate the contributions of all the members, past and present, who have made Super Junior the legendary group it is today. Their music and performances have brought joy to millions of people around the world, and their legacy will continue to inspire future generations of K-pop artists and fans.