Former iKON Leader B.I in Discuss to To Return Promotions in K-Pop After Long Hiatus
On Dec. 23, IOK Company revealed that there's a possibility that B.I might officially return to promotions after his lengthy break in the entertainment industry. The agency representative stated that they are taking note of various factors, including the public's negative views, the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, and many more while talking about Hanbin's return as an idol.
The rep added, "I would be lying if I deny that he is currently preparing for his return. However, whether he is coming back as solo, group, or producer, and other particular details are still undecided." IOK Company's rep then shared that B.I have carried out several volunteer activities that the label was unaware of.
The official then mentioned the recent volunteer activities of Hanbin, which they publicized, and explained that they didn't reveal what Kim has been up to not because his return to promotions is approaching, but because they want to share with the fans his good deeds.
On Dec. 21, IOK Company shared that a member of the executive directorial board, Kim Hanbin in particular, donated to the NG World Vision. The former iKON member donated masks and other products worth around 200 million KRW. While Hanbin was spotted working as a volunteer in a fan project on Dec. 19, the agency just confirmed this activity today, Dec. 23. The fan project involved delivering coals to residences in a certain neighborhood around Incheon.
According to reports, Kim has been taking the time to reflect on his past actions after dealing with accusations of attempting to purchase illegal drugs by becoming a volunteer in multiple organizations and projects.
Kim Hanbin, best known to be a former iKON member under the stage name B.I, is currently under IOK Company as one of the executive directors. He was appointed in such position this past September, making him the youngest among them. The agency is home to several celebrities such as Moon Hee Jun, Kim Sook, Jang Yoon Jung, Jo In Sung, and many more.
The former iKON leader has been on hiatus in the entertainment industry since June 12, 2019, when he parted ways with the boy group and YG Entertainment shortly after the revelation of Dispatch about him attempting to purchase marijuana and LSD in 2016. This past February, it was revealed that Hanbin tested negative for illegal drugs.
Ahead of leaving iKON, B.I took part in the boy group's second studio album titled "Return," which was released in January 2018. In particular, he co-composed the album's lead single "Love Scenario," which later became one of the band's signature songs. He also wrote the lyrics of the song, along with his bandmate Bobby.
Upon the release of the song, it immediately became popular, especially among kindergartens and elementary schoolers because of its easy-to-follow melodies and lyrics. In December of the same year, Hanbin received the "Songwriter of the Year" award at the 10th Melon Music Awards through "Love Scenario."