U-KISS Rapper Shin Dongho Plans To Withdraw From Public Life After Leaving Group

Fans of the group U-KISS are still reeling from the news that rapper Shin Dongho will be leaving the group, and the world of entertainment entirely.

"Dong Ho will leaving the [group ahead of a] new U-KISS album that will be released later this month," the group's record label NH Media announced in a statement on Tuesday, according to the website 24-7kpop.

"He will be taking a break from the entertainment world."

The 19-year-old star claims he is no longer physically up for the challenges of being in the K-pop boy band.

"Starting from the beginning of this year, Dongho's determination about being active as a celebrity weakened, and he has revealed that he doesn't believe his health condition and stamina fit well with the life of a singer," the statement read.

It is unclear when or even if the rapper will return to show business.

Dongho, who joined U-KISS in 2008, wants to live a normal life, not one of a celebrity, according to the publication eNEWS.

"After speaking with Dongho and his parents after a long time, we decided to accept Dongho's wishes and made this difficult decision," the NH Media statement added.

The reclusive star's U-KISS bandmates reportedly supported his decision.

"Although it's a decision that will be costly for the team, the members also agreed to Dongho's wishes," the label's statement explained.

"Dong Ho's empty spot will be burdensome, but the six members will release a new album soon as scheduled as six members."

Popdust blogger Jacques Peterson doubts that Dongho's departure will affect U-KISS's success very much.

"Dongo's departure is sad news for fans, but it probably won't affect much overall," Peterson wrote on Wednesday.

"The group's been around for about five years now but have never hit the big time. They have yet to win first place on a music program, and their last single, 'Standing Still,' peaked at No. 81 on the charts. They do have a strong fan base, though, and have racked up seven consecutive top ten singles in Japan, so Dongho will definitely be missed by the fans."

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Shin Dongho
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U-KISS
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