A new online poll conducted by Korean community platform DC Inside is attracting attention after netizens selected the stars they believe are “they will most likely regret leaving their groups.”
The poll, which took place from 4 to 10 May, collected a total of 17,809 votes and sparked heated discussions among K-pop fans due to the controversial names included in the charts.
First place was the former THE SERAPHINS Kim Garam, who received 3,527 votes, about 20% of the total.
Kim Garam debuted with THE SERAPHINS in 2022 but left the group shortly after serious allegations of school bullying related to his middle school years. After disappearing from the public eye for a long time, she recently resurfaced by opening a personal YouTube channel and sharing updates on her current life.
In second place was Danielle di New Jeans with 3,451 votes.
Danielle and the other New Jeans have become one of the most successful K-pop artists globally in recent years, but the group’s ongoing conflict with ADOR and parent company HYBE has shocked fans around the world.
According to the article, Danielle was involved in the consequences of the termination of the group’s exclusive contracts and has since faced legal disputes related to claims for damages. The singer had previously emotionally addressed fans during live broadcasts while discussing the difficult situation.
Third place went to Jessica Jung, who received 2,443 votes.
Jessica famously left Generation of girls in 2014, one of the most shocking idol departures in K-pop history. Since leaving the group, he has undertaken solo musical activities and simultaneously developed his fashion business.
Most recently, Jessica attracted attention after participating in aa Chinese idol survival programwhere she finished in second place and joined a group of girls from the project. He has also performed several recently Generation of girls songs during a solo concert, reigniting nostalgia among longtime fans.
Other stars mentioned in the ranking included TOP of BIG BANGformer FIFTY FIFTY members Aran, Sio and Saena, as well as ex fromis_9 member Jang Gyuri.
The survey quickly became a trending topic onlinewith fans debating whether leaving successful idol groups truly leads to regret or whether many stars ultimately gain more freedom and happiness by pursuing independent careers.
While some netizens argue that losing access to mass fandom and group branding naturally creates long-term consequences, others have defended artists and pointed out that personal well-being, career direction and corporate conflicts often play a much bigger role than public success alone.
Sources: Daum | Sports Seoul
