XLOV’s Hyun will miss the group’s comeback showcase on October 28 after injuring his leg during practice, agency StrangeLab announced on October 27, just one day before the release of the group’s third mini album, “i=!”.
According to MK Sports, StrangeLab said in its October 27 statement: “We inform you that XLOV member Hyun will not attend the showcase for the third mini album ‘i=!’ scheduled for October 28 due to a leg injury sustained during practice.” Dispatch carried the same announcement, reporting that Hyun hurt his leg while rehearsing for the new release.
The agency said medical staff advised that Hyun needs sufficient rest and stability, and that the showcase will therefore go ahead with the other three members. The decision was framed as a health-first call made on the eve of the comeback, rather than a postponement of the event itself.
What happens next for Hyun remains open. StrangeLab said participation in upcoming schedules, including music show appearances and fansign events, will be decided carefully after considering the progress of his recovery, with further details to be shared separately. No timeline for his return has been given.
The agency also addressed fans directly, apologizing to EVOL, the group’s fandom, for the sudden news and asking for their understanding. “We will do our best for Hyun’s recovery so that he can meet fans in good health,” the agency said, according to the reports.
The comeback itself is unchanged. XLOV’s third mini album, “i=!”, is set for release on October 28 at 6 p.m. KST across music streaming platforms, with the showcase marking the group’s return to the stage for the new era.
The setback continues a difficult run of health news for the group during this comeback cycle. Earlier in October, fellow member Wumuti sat out the group’s October 4 fan events after StrangeLab cited a worsening of his health, with those events also proceeding with the remaining members. XLOV debuted in January 2025 with a genderless concept, and “i=!” follows a teaser rollout that included artwork and individual concept photos unveiled earlier in October.
For now, all eyes will be on whether Hyun can rejoin the group for music show stages once the album is out, with StrangeLab promising further updates as his condition develops.
