On the 16th, Lee’s agency Sangyoung ENT issued a statement aiming to correct what it described as speculation and misinformation surrounding his exit from the variety series.
“We were informed of Lee Yi-kyung’s departure during a meeting with the 'Hangout with Yoo' production team,” the statement said, noting they were told it was “a decision from higher up and not subject to reversal.” The agency added, “We expressed our disappointment, but we never asked whether the decision came from Yoo Jae-suk or pressed the staff about it.”
According to the agency, Lee spoke with Yoo by phone the day he was notified. “They shared their regret and ended on a supportive note, saying, ‘Let’s talk when we see each other,’” the statement continued, adding that Lee has not mentioned Yoo since. The company asked that outlets and social media users refrain from spreading unverified rumors.
Lee has recently faced controversy after a woman, reportedly German and identified only as A, posted allegations about his private life. Amid the furor, a YouTuber claimed producers told Lee his "Hangout with Yoo" exit was decided “from above,” alleging Lee repeatedly asked, “So who’s above―was it Yoo Jae-suk?” The YouTuber said producers did not answer, implying Yoo may have been behind the move.
Speculation intensified when, at a recent awards show, Lee said, “HAHA, Joo Woo-jae, I miss you,” notably leaving Yoo out of his remarks despite their shared history on "Hangout with Yoo".
After Lee’s team denied any “Yoo Jae-suk pulled the strings” narrative, the YouTuber voiced displeasure, claiming to have “clear evidence and materials,” and hinted at releasing them at a later date.
(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Sun-ae)