The Fall of 1NDER: A Sad Story of Misconduct, Leadership, and Disbandment in K-pop

On November 30, 2023, the K-pop world was rocked by the sudden departure of Jiyoung, the leader of 1NDER, a rookie group that had debuted just a few months earlier. This tragedy led to a string of events that ultimately resulted in the disbandment of 1NDER, leaving countless fans and members in shock. This article delves into the story, providing an intimate look into the lives of the members, the misconduct scandal, and the leadership challenges that led to their disbandment.

Background and Debut

Joining the K-pop industry is an arduous journey riddled with both highs and lows. For Yoon Guwon, better known as Grey, the journey began in July 2023 when 1NDER made its debut. Comprising seven members, Grey was the second-oldest, with Jiyoung as the leader, three years his senior. However, just five months into their debut, Jiyoung faced a scandal, triggering a chain of events that would drastically alter not only the fate of 1NDER but also the lives of its members.

The Misconduct Scandal

The scandal that emerged involved alleged misconduct on Jiyoung's part. Despite the severity of the accusation, the company demanded an NDA from the other members. Grey, ever the dutiful leader, felt a mix of betrayal and confusion. Jiyoung, the leader, had not even reached out to the other members, leaving everyone in the dark. In the wake of these events, the group's online community on K-pop subreddits was divided, with some fans demanding Jiyoung's return and others criticizing the group's handling of the situation.

The Transition and Leadership

Grey, who naturally took on the mantle of leader after Jiyoung left, faced numerous challenges. He had to navigate through the storm of negative comments and public backlash. Grey's first announcement as the new leader, on January 13, 2024, revealed a bittersweet victory mixed with intense pressure. There were two main criticisms: the belief that the former member, a coveted asset, did not deserve to be let go, and a misinterpretation of "birds of a feather" by critics, lumping the entire group in with Jiyoung's actions.

The Harsh Reality

After a few months, the pressure became too much for Grey to bear. On September 5, 2024, 1NDER announced its disbandment, hardly more than a year after their debut. Grey's journey is a testament to the unforgiving nature of the K-pop industry, where reputation and performance play a crucial role in determining a group's success or disbandment. The harsh reality of the situation is that despite their talents, 1NDER was unable to withstand the challenges they faced.

The story of 1NDER is a poignant reminder of the consequences of misconduct and the challenges leaders face in maintaining a group's integrity. It serves as a cautionary tale for aspiring idols and groups, emphasizing the need for strong leadership, fair treatment, and resilience in the face of adversity.