Starship Entertainment has announced that Joohoney will not be participating in MONSTA X's upcoming activities after the idol was diagnosed with anxiety.
According to the label, Joohoney sought medical attention after showing signs of anxiety."The results of the examination showed that due to anxiety symptoms, sufficient rest and stability are essential for him to make a full recovery."
The agency apologized to fans and appealed for their understanding. They said that they wanted to ensure the well being of their artist first and foremost and discussed the decision with Joohoney and the rest of MONSTA X members.
"We have had a thorough discussion with Joohoney and the MONSTA X members and have decided to focus on the restoration of Joohoney's health through continuous treatment and stability."
Starship Entertainment further said that Joohoney's return to MONSTA X's activities will be dependent on his recovery. They said they will only allow the idol to return with a clean bill of health from doctors.
Agencies have, recently, become more vigilant about the mental health of their artists after the sudden death of Sulli and Goo Hara last year. While police did not directly make a confirmation, it was believed that both stars took their own lives because of the pressures of the industry.
Kang Daniel has, recently, announced a break from activities because of anxiety while SEVENTEEN leader S.coups is also on hiatus for the same reason.
TWICE's Mina has been on hiatus since last year, also because of anxiety and JYP announced that she will return to group activities when she fully recovers from her condition.
Last December, COSMIC Girls' Dawon also went on hiatus due to anxiety. LOONA's Haseul has also announced a temporary break from activities to focus on her mental health.
TWICE leader Jihyo, recently, drew flack for lashing out at fans who were speculating the reason for her disappearance after the group's performance at the 2019 Mnet Asian Music Awards but explained, later on, that she has been suffering through anxiety for the better part of 2019.
Jihyo confided that she has been battling stress, anxiety, and depression for most of the year and felt that it was a challenge to perform on stage and keep a smile on her face while she dealt with her turmoil. Luckily, fans are more understanding of idols' mental health these days and are supportive of the artists' recovery.
