K-pop: DRIPPIN's Joo Changuk returns to music after health hiatus
Joo Changuk, a member of the popular K-pop band DRIPPIN, is set to resume his professional commitments following a brief health-related break. The announcement was made by Woollim Entertainment, DRIPPIN's agency, on Sunday. They confirmed that Joo's health has "improved greatly" since he took a hiatus last month due to respiratory issues. To recall, after a hospital visit, Joo received a diagnosis of a respiratory illness, leading to extensive media examinations.
Future participation is to be guided by the doctor's advice
Despite Changuk's improved health, his participation in future activities may be limited. The official statement read: "Although Joo's health has improved greatly, we plan for him to participate flexibly in DRIPPIN's future scheduled activities while discussing [the extent of his participation] with his doctor." "We sincerely thank the many fans who worried about [Joo Changuk] up until now, and until Joo Changuk makes a full recovery," it further added.
Group debuted in 2020 with EP 'Boyager'
Formed by Woollim Entertainment in 2020, the South Korean boy band initially comprised Hyeop, Yunseong, Changuk, Dongyun, Minseo, Junho, and previously Alex. However, the lattermost member departed the lineup on July 28, 2023, citing health concerns. Their official debut occurred on October 28, 2020, with the EP (extended play) Boyager. Following this, they released their second EP titled A Better Tomorrow and their first single album, Free Pass, in the same year.
DRIPIN released their fourth single 'Beautiful Maze' in April
On April 3, 2024, the group released their fourth single Beautiful Maze, which contains three tracks, including the lead single of the same name. The single sold more than 1.2 lakh copies within three days of its release, breaking their previous record set by Seven Sins, which sold only 14,000 copies in its first weeks. Woollim Entertainment had announced on March 28 that Joo would take a break, but the group would continue promotions as a five-member lineup.
