APRIL: A Complicated Legacy
APRIL, a girl group formed by DSP Media, debuted in 2015, with their EP Dreaming and its title track "Dream Candy." The original lineup featured Somin, Chaewon, Hyunjoo, Naeun, Yena, and Jinsol. The group, interestingly enough, was not named for the month. Their name combines "A" (the best) and "PRIL" (from the word "girl" in French), and symbolizes "the best, lovely girls." They quickly gained attention for their pure and lovely image, earning the nickname "Chung-jeong-dol" (pure idol) from fans, which distinguished them from other girl groups in the industry.
Despite their promising start, APRIL experienced significant lineup changes early on. Somin, the original leader, departed in November 2015, citing discomfort with the group's concept. She later joined the co-ed group KARD. In 2016, Hyunjoo also left due to health issues and later pursued an acting career. The group then welcomed new members Chaekyung and Rachel, which reinvigorated their dynamic. Their subsequent releases, including "Muah!" and "Tinker Bell," captured fans' hearts with unique, fairy tale-inspired aesthetics.
APRIL's discography expanded with later releases like Prelude, Mayday, and Eternity, cementing their presence in the K-pop scene. They also ventured into the Japanese market with a debut single in 2018, achieving notable success with tracks like "The Blue Bird" and "Oh! My Mistake." However, a significant hiatus in 2019 foreshadowed the group's tumultuous future.
In 2021, former member Hyunjoo's allegations of bullying against the remaining members surfaced, shaking the group's foundation. The bullying scandal began when Hyunjoo's brother and a friend claimed she had been bullied by the other APRIL members, leading to her departure in 2016. They alleged that the bullying caused her severe mental and physical distress. Hyunjoo later confirmed these accusations, detailing instances of harassment and mistreatment. The claims included verbal abuse, exclusion, and even physical aggression. The members of APRIL and DSP Media denied the allegations, stating that conflicts were common among young people living and working together, but maintained that there was no systemic bullying.
The controversy severely impacted APRIL's career. Public backlash led to the members being removed from endorsements and acting roles. Fans expressed their disappointment and demanded accountability. DSP Media filed lawsuits against those spreading what they claimed was false information, aiming to protect the group's reputation. Despite these efforts, the scandal's shadow loomed large, leading to the group's prolonged hiatus and eventual disbandment on January 28, 2022, after a year of inactivity and unresolved tensions.
Post-disbandment, the members of APRIL have pursued individual careers. Chaekyung and Jinsol transitioned to acting, signing with new agencies. Yena and Naeun also continued with acting careers, and Chaewon remains engaged with fans through other various activities. Somin found success with KARD, and Rachel remained with DSP Media. Hyunjoo stepped away from the entertainment industry entirely, focusing on her well-being. Despite APRIL's unique charm and contributions to K-pop, for many K-pop fans, their legacy is forever tarnished by their disbandment and controversies.