Wasting No Time, XngHan’s Unstoppable Solo Debut After Leaving RIIZE

XngHan makes solo debut with "Waste No Time" after a turbulent exit from RIIZE due to pre-debut dating scandals and fan backlash.
His new identity (XngHan & Xoul) reflects artistic control, with hands-on involvement in lyrics, choreography, and concept.
The debut symbolizes redemption, turning past struggles into a powerful comeback that defies K-pop’s cutthroat expectations.

The K-pop industry is no stranger to comebacks, but few have been as emotionally charged and artistically significant as XngHan’s (formerly Seunghan of RIIZE) solo debut.

After a tumultuous year marked by public scrutiny, a painful group exit, and a period of self-reflection, the 21-year-old has re-emerged with a new identity, a fresh sound, and an unshakable determination to prove himself on his own terms. His debut single, “Waste No Time,” isn’t just a song—it’s a declaration of independence, a summer anthem about seizing the moment, and a metaphor for his own career rebirth.

The Fallout: Why Seunghan Left RIIZE

XngHan’s path to this solo debut was anything but smooth. Originally debuting with RIIZE in September 2023 under SM Entertainment, his time in the group was cut short when pre-debut dating rumors surfaced, sparking intense backlash from so-called "fans" who deemed his past actions unacceptable for an idol. The harassment escalated to horrifying extremes—including the delivery of a funeral wreath to the company with a note demanding he “leave the group.”

After an 11-month hiatus, SM Entertainment attempted to reintegrate him into RIIZE in October 2024, only to reverse course two days later following fan outrage. Quoted from Soompi, In a raw, handwritten letter, Seunghan admitted:

“After pondering deeply whether I’ve been thinking only of myself too much, whether I’m causing too much harm to the members and the company, and whether it’s really okay for me to be part of RIIZE, who should be loved, I only felt worried and apologetic. So I think that my leaving the group is the right path for everyone.”

SM’s official statement confirmed his departure, citing respect for his wishes, but the emotional toll was undeniable. Many wondered if his career could recover—until now.

Rebirth as XngHan: A Solo Debut with Meaning

Rather than fade away, XngHan reinvented himself. His new stage name, replacing the “S” in Seunghan with an “X,” was a deliberate choice.

“X symbolizes infinite potential,” he explained in his interview with The Hollywood Reporter, August 1.

“It’s the unknown variable in equations, and that’s how I see myself now—full of possibilities,” he continued.

His debut single, “Waste No Time,” is a high-energy electronic dance track with a message that mirrors his own journey: “Don’t hesitate, spread your wings.” The accompanying B-side, “Heavenly Blue,” showcases his growth as a songwriter, marking the first time he’s contributed lyrics to his own music.

What makes this debut even more personal is his collaboration with Xoul, a two-member dance crew (Kyohong and Yul) that adds a dynamic, almost theatrical flair to his performances. “Working with them felt like playing, but we were creating something meaningful,” he shared. The chemistry is evident in the music video, where sharp choreography and vibrant visuals solidify his new artistic identity.

Overcoming Hate: A Test of Resilience

XngHan’s story isn’t just about a solo debut—it’s about survival in an industry that often prioritizes perfection over humanity. The hate he endured was relentless, yet instead of retreating, he channeled it into his craft.

“I used that time to look back on myself. It was a period for self-improvement, preparing for a new start. Everything I learned will fuel me moving forward.”

His determination to prove himself is palpable. Unlike many idols who stick to safe, company-crafted images, XngHan is hands-on in his creative process—writing lyrics, designing choreography, and even envisioning a future where he produces an entire album independently.

XngHan isn’t just thinking about this single—he’s planning long-term. He also hinted at possibly forming a band in the future, but for now, his focus is on perfecting his performances with Xoul.

“My ultimate dream is to release an album where I’ve contributed to every aspect: lyrics, composition, choreography,” he revealed.

To fans who stood by him, he had a heartfelt message:

“Thank you for the long wait. Because the wait was so long, I created music that was worth it. I’m going to pour my heart and soul into this. Please love the music, and love me too.”

XngHan’s debut is more than just a career milestone—it’s a statement. In an industry that often discards idols at the first sign of controversy, he refused to disappear. Instead, he transformed his struggles into art, proving that reinvention is possible. As he boldly stated:

“This is a new beginning for me. I hope everyone can look at me from a fresh perspective. I’m going to burn the soloist XngHan into your brain," XngHan concluded

Source: The Hollywood Reporter, Soompi, SM Entertainment