Starship Entertainment confirmed that MONSTA X will postpone the released of their long-awaited mini-album, "FANTASIA X." 

(Photo : Twitter)

On May 4, the company prompted the posting of a notice to the official Twitter page of MONSTA X, which states:

"Hello, this is Starship Entertainment. 

We are sincerely sorry for making an unexpected official statement that somehow the official launch of MONSTA X's mini-album "FANTASIA X" will be postponed. 

Member Shownu suffered severe back pain when performing dance routines for the forthcoming return. He was rushed and admitted to a hospital immediately for medical assessment. 

Based on the test result, Shownu was advised to refrain any intense activity, repetitive movement, and to undergo injection therapy along with physical therapy for a speedy recovery.

Shownu is essentially being monitored regularly for rehabilitation, and his state of health has improved tremendously. It was determined, nevertheless, that the initial comeback timeframe might disrupt the status of his recovery.  

Shownu underwent a medical assessment to get an educated choice and received a report that he will need more time to recuperate.

As we placed emphasis on the health of the performer, we also eventually agreed to delay the premiere date of the "FANTASIA X" album, taking into account the state of Shownu and thereby future events and operations.

The upcoming new MONSTA X album, "FANTASIA X," formerly set to be released on May 11, will be pushed back until May 26, 2020. After it is planned, further notice about any publication of content will be re-announced.

Once again, we would like to apologize sincerely and ask the fans who have already been waiting for MONSTA X's return for kind consideration and understanding." 

It was in March when MONSTA X revealed that they are preparing for their next return. Also, early that week, it was unveiled that Joohoney would resume activities and that he will take part in the band's comeback.

Starship Entertainment revealed in an official statement on March 27, "MONSTA X will make a comeback with the new album at some time in May."

The company added, "Member Joohoney, who for his psychological wellbeing and sufficient rest temporarily suspended operations in January, will resume MONSTA X events beginning with the approaching May Comeback. Joohoney's wellbeing has dramatically improved as he concentrated on therapy and healing during his absence, and his comeback was determined after a detailed conversation with him, the company and a healthcare professional."

Starship concluded, "We will constantly test the MONSTA X members' medical conditions and put all our energy into maintaining their health." 

"FANTASIA X" was initially set for release on May 11.

Below is the fans' reaction regarding the postponed comeback of MONSTA X.

"Health comes first. This is unfortunate, but I hope Shownu gets better." 

"We MONBEBES wish you to have a speedy recovery, but please take all the time you need to feel 100% better! Fighting!" 

"We care more for their health, and they can take how much ever time they need because health comes first. I wouldn't want any of them performing for us regardless of their condition." 

"I truly hope Shownu will rest and recover well. There is no need to rush; MONBEBE will always be here. His health is far more important! I hope that all of MONSTA X are looking after their health best they can!" 

"Shownu's health comes first!"