Hey ELF! Ever wondered what happened to the former members of Super Junior? Super Junior, the legendary K-pop group, has seen some lineup changes over the years. Some members have pursued solo careers, while others have ventured into acting or other fields. Let's dive into who these former members are and what they're up to now. Super Junior debuted in 2005 under SM Entertainment, initially with 12 members and later expanding to 13 with the addition of Kyuhyun. Over the years, several members have left the group for various reasons, including contract expirations, pursuing individual careers, and personal choices. Despite these changes, Super Junior has remained one of the most influential and beloved groups in K-pop history, constantly evolving and adapting to the changing landscape of the entertainment industry. The departure of members has undoubtedly brought about changes in the group's dynamics and sound, but Super Junior has consistently demonstrated resilience and continues to captivate audiences worldwide with their music and performances. Understanding the journeys of these former members provides a deeper appreciation for the group's history and the individual paths each artist has chosen. So, let's get started and explore where these former members are now and what they've been doing since their departure from Super Junior. Keep reading to find out more about their current endeavors and how they've continued to make their mark in the entertainment world.

Han Geng

Han Geng, also known as Hankyung, was one of the earliest and most prominent Chinese members of Super Junior. His departure marked a significant moment in K-pop history. Han Geng joined Super Junior in 2005 as one of the original members of Super Junior and was part of the subgroup Super Junior-M, which focused on the Chinese market. During his time with Super Junior, he gained immense popularity and contributed significantly to the group's success, particularly in China. However, in December 2009, Han Geng filed a lawsuit against SM Entertainment, citing unfair contract terms and health issues. This lawsuit eventually led to his departure from Super Junior in 2010. After leaving Super Junior, Han Geng returned to China and launched a successful solo career. He released several albums, starred in numerous films and television dramas, and established himself as a prominent actor and singer in the Chinese entertainment industry. Some of his notable works include roles in movies like "So Young" and "Ever Since We Love." Han Geng has also been involved in various business ventures and has remained a significant figure in the Chinese entertainment scene. His decision to leave Super Junior was influenced by several factors, including the demanding schedule, health concerns, and what he perceived as unfair treatment by SM Entertainment. The lawsuit he filed highlighted issues related to contract lengths, profit distribution, and the lack of autonomy for foreign artists in the South Korean entertainment industry. Despite the controversies surrounding his departure, Han Geng has maintained a positive image and continues to enjoy a successful career in China. His journey reflects the challenges faced by foreign artists in K-pop and the complexities of navigating the entertainment industry across different cultural contexts. Many fans remember him fondly for his contributions to Super Junior and his pioneering role as one of the first Chinese idols in K-pop. His success after leaving the group has solidified his status as a significant figure in the entertainment world, both in China and internationally.

Kim Kibum

Kim Kibum, known for his charming smile and acting skills, was another notable member of Super Junior. His journey took a different path compared to other members. Kibum debuted with Super Junior in 2005 and quickly gained attention for his visuals and unique personality. While he participated in the group's early albums and activities, he gradually shifted his focus towards acting. Starting in 2006, Kibum began to take on acting roles in various television dramas, which led to reduced participation in Super Junior's musical activities. In 2009, he announced that he would be focusing solely on his acting career and would not be participating in Super Junior's album releases or group promotions. Although he remained under contract with SM Entertainment, he was effectively inactive as a member of Super Junior. In August 2015, Kim Kibum's contract with SM Entertainment expired, and he officially departed from the agency and Super Junior. Following his departure, Kibum continued his acting career, primarily focusing on roles in Chinese dramas and films. He has appeared in several productions, showcasing his versatility as an actor. While he has maintained a relatively low profile compared to his time with Super Junior, he has remained active in the entertainment industry. Kibum's decision to focus on acting was driven by his passion for performance and his desire to explore different opportunities in the entertainment world. Although his absence from Super Junior was felt by many fans, he has continued to pursue his dreams and carve out his own path. His career choices reflect a broader trend among K-pop idols who seek to diversify their talents and explore different avenues for success. Fans often remember Kibum for his contributions to Super Junior's early success and his memorable roles in various dramas. His journey highlights the diverse paths that K-pop idols can take and the challenges of balancing group activities with individual aspirations.

Kangin

Kangin, known for his strong vocals and charismatic presence, faced several challenges during his time with Super Junior. His departure marked a difficult chapter in the group's history. Kangin debuted with Super Junior in 2005 and was a prominent member, participating in various activities, including singing, hosting, and acting. However, his career was marred by controversies, including incidents involving drunk driving and public altercations. These incidents led to temporary suspensions from Super Junior's activities and damaged his public image. In July 2019, Kangin announced his departure from Super Junior, stating that he did not want to cause further harm to the group due to his past actions. His decision was met with mixed reactions from fans, with some expressing support and understanding, while others felt disappointed. Following his departure from Super Junior, Kangin has maintained a low profile and has not been actively involved in the entertainment industry. There have been limited updates about his activities, and he has largely stayed out of the public eye. Kangin's departure from Super Junior was a significant event that reflected the pressures and challenges faced by idols in the K-pop industry. The controversies he faced highlighted the importance of responsible behavior and the impact that personal actions can have on a group's reputation. His decision to leave the group demonstrated a sense of responsibility and a desire to protect Super Junior from further negative publicity. While his absence has been felt by some fans, his departure allowed Super Junior to move forward and continue their activities without the shadow of his past controversies. Many fans remember Kangin for his contributions to Super Junior's music and performances, as well as his engaging personality. His story serves as a reminder of the importance of personal conduct and the impact that controversies can have on an idol's career. Despite the challenges he faced, his time with Super Junior remains a part of the group's history and legacy.

What This Means for Super Junior

The departure of Han Geng, Kim Kibum, and Kangin has undoubtedly impacted Super Junior. These changes have led to adjustments in the group's lineup, musical direction, and overall dynamics. Despite these challenges, Super Junior has demonstrated remarkable resilience and adaptability, continuing to thrive and maintain their status as one of the leading K-pop groups. The remaining members have stepped up to fill the gaps left by the departing members, showcasing their individual talents and strengthening the group's collective identity. Super Junior has also embraced new opportunities and collaborations, constantly evolving their music and performances to stay relevant and engaging for their fans. The group's longevity and continued success can be attributed to their strong bond, unwavering dedication, and ability to adapt to changing circumstances. Super Junior has also maintained a strong connection with their fans, known as ELF (Ever Lasting Friends), who have provided unwavering support throughout the group's journey. The members have expressed their gratitude for the fans' loyalty and have consistently strived to deliver high-quality music and performances in return. The departure of members has also allowed Super Junior to explore new creative avenues and experiment with different musical styles. The group has released a diverse range of albums and singles, showcasing their versatility and willingness to push boundaries. Super Junior's ability to reinvent themselves and stay ahead of the curve has been a key factor in their continued success. Despite the challenges they have faced, Super Junior has emerged stronger and more resilient, proving their status as K-pop legends. Their story is a testament to the power of teamwork, perseverance, and the unwavering support of their fans. As they continue to evolve and embark on new adventures, Super Junior remains an inspiration to aspiring artists and a beloved group for fans around the world.