NCT Dream member Renjun/Sports Chosun

Popular K-pop boy band NCT Dream member Renjun, who recently revealed a malicious message from a Sasaeng fan (a stalker fan), will take temporary breaks for health reasons.

SM Entertainment, NCT Dream’s agency, confirmed his hiatus from the group’s activities through the official statement on Apr. 20. “Renjun had recently seen doctors due to poor physical condition and anxiety symptoms. They advised him to rest and stabilize sufficiently. His health is the top priority for the agency, so we have decided to focus on his treatment and recovery after careful discussion with the artist himself.”

Consequently, Renjun will not participate in any upcoming promotions, starting from the fanigning event on Apr. 20. He will also be absent from NCT Dream’s solo concert scheduled for May 2-4 next month. During this period, NCT Dream will remain a six-member group without Renjun. Only Mark, Jeno, Haechan, Jaemin, Chenle, and Jisung will take part in the concert.

Renjun’s hiatus recalls his recent confrontation with a Sasaeng fan who sent him an intrusive message. He shared screenshots of the message on a paid fan communication platform.

In the message, the stalker fan criticizes him, “Idols have these days been so carefree. You guys effortlessly earn money, have good looks, and date freely, yet live performances are crap. There’s no passion seen in the previous generations, just too relaxed. You guys should be prohibited from using cell phones as in the past.” Renjun responded, “Rather than hiding behind a screen and typing these messages like a rat if you have something to say, have the courage to say it to my face with a lawyer present.” He even opened a phone number of what appeared to be a lawyer.

Along with the screenshots, Renjun expressed his frustration. “Idols are human, and we face difficulties, too! Don’t judge us for living in a ridiculous schedule.” He added, “If you pursue your dreams with dedication, financial success will follow. Are there any professions that don’t offer financial rewards?” He also advised, “Live your life to the fullest. Don’t waste time on irrelevant people. Instead, learn to find inner peace and calm. Don’t direct your frustrations towards others.”

SM Entertainment has warned that they will take legal action against those who invade artists’ privacy or send malicious messages. In recent years, the agency has been consistently collecting instances of malicious criminal behavior against its artists. With the evidence from these, they have filed complaints for insult and other charges, requesting prompt cooperation in the investigation.