NCT Dream's Renjun pauses group activities due to health issues
Renjun, an integral member of the widely popular K-pop boy band NCT Dream, will be absent from upcoming group events due to health complications. On Saturday, the band's agency SM Entertainment confirmed that Renjun's deteriorating health necessitates his withdrawal from a scheduled performance in Japan and a fan meet-and-greet in Shanghai. The agency emphasized that the artist's health is their primary concern. To note, the artist debuted in 2016 with NCT's sub-unit NCT Dream.
Why does this story matter?
For those unaware, NCT Dream—the third sub-unit of NCT—was formed by SME. Initially conceived as the teenaged unit of NCT, it operated with an admission-and-graduation system, wherein members would depart upon reaching the age of majority (20 per the Korean age system, 19 internationally). However, the group underwent a rebranding in 2020. Debuting in 2016, with the single Chewing Gum—the sub-unit initially comprised seven members—Mark, Renjun, Jeno, Haechan, Jaemin, Chenle, and Jisung—whose average age was 15.6 years old.
Renjun to miss scheduled performances in Japan and China
SM Entertainment issued a statement explaining, "Due to his worsening physical health, NCT Dream member Renjun will not be attending the NHK Show Venue 101, which will take place in Japan on April 13. He will also not attend the fan signing event in China's Shanghai on April 14, (sic)." The agency reiterated its commitment to prioritizing his health and assured fans of their meticulous management of his future activities.
SM Entertainment's commitment to Renjun's health and recovery
The agency further clarified, "Renjun is currently resting and our artist's health is our top priority. As he recovers, we will plan to manage his future activities in a careful manner." They expressed unwavering support for him during this challenging period and committed to doing everything possible to expedite his recovery. The agency also promised fans updates on his health status and future activities.
Know more about Renjun
Renjun—a Chinese K-pop idol—serves as the lead vocalist. His remarkable dancing abilities have also garnered significant attention, earning him a devoted fanbase in both South Korea and China. Most notably, his distinctive fairytale-like style was showcased in their 2024 comeback album, DREAM( )SCAPE, released on March 25. The album comprises six energetic tracks, with the title track Smoothie already amassing 12M views on YouTube for its detail-oriented storytelling in the music video.
