Just as fans were wondering about the abrupt end to f(x)‘s promotions for “Red Light,” SM dropped another bomb, declaring that Sulli will be taking an indefinite hiatus from the entertainment industry. Reactions from fans have ranged from supportive, to disappointed, to angry. Those who have waited for f(x)’s comeback are especially outraged that Sulli’s issues have implicated all of f(x), causing their latest promotions to be prematurely cut short.
Based on SM’s statement, it seems that the scandal between Choiza and Sulli has taken a toll on her mental and physical health, painting a different story from some ‘illness’ that allowed her to take a week off promotions. The situation seems to have escalated to something pretty serious, especially if to the extent that Sulli is taking time off from her entire schedule, and f(x) is halting promotions.
There’s no clue how long this hiatus will last, or if Sulli even plans to continue promoting with f(x). Suspicious are rampant as to the ‘real’ reason for this break, including some pretty far-fetched stories. Here is the official statement from SM:
f(x) member Sulli became mentally and physically exhausted from the continuous, malicious comments and false rumors, and has expressed her wish to take a break from her celebrity activities for the time being. After careful deliberation and taking her wish into consideration, we will reduce her activities and let her take a break for the time being. Also, f(x)’s promotions for their 3rd full-length album ‘Red Light‘ ended with their stage on SBS‘ ‘Inkigayo‘ last week. f(x) will continue on activities with the SMTOWN Seoul concert on August 15 and overseas promotions, as well as individual schedules for the remaining four members Victoria, Amber, Luna, and Krystal.
It seems like SM just can’t catch a break this year, what with relationships being revealed one after another, a lawsuit against them, and now, a temporary f(4). What is your reaction to this development?
(SM Entertainment, TV Report)
