Iroha sprains ankle during concert rehearsal as Moka remains on hiatus, raising concerns ahead of new album release next week
Illit could be left with just three active members for its upcoming comeback after Iroha suffered an ankle sprain during a concert rehearsal Saturday, adding to the girl group's challenges as fellow member Moka remains on hiatus.
Belift Lab confirmed the injury Sunday through fan platform Weverse, saying Iroha had received medical treatment and that her participation in upcoming performances was dependent on her recovery.
"Iroha is strongly determined to take part in every scheduled performance,” the agency wrote. “However, our top priority is protecting our artist, so we plan to manage her participation flexibly.”
It added that Iroha's participation in certain performances could be restricted.
Illit held its "Press Start" encore concerts at Inspire Arena in Incheon on Saturday and Sunday, with Iroha sustaining the injury during preparations for Sunday's performance.
The injury comes a week before the group is scheduled to release its fifth EP, "Break Even," on Oct. 26, alongside the music video for its lead single, "You're Under Arrest."
If Iroha cannot participate in promotional activities, Illit could be left performing with just three members — Yunah, Minju and Wonhee — of its original five-member lineup.
The group has already been promoting as a four-member act amid Moka's ongoing health-related hiatus. She first suspended activities on April 20, briefly returned to the stage on May 29 and went on hiatus again on June 19 due to symptoms of excessive tension and anxiety.
At the time, Belift Lab said medical professionals had recommended further rest and recovery.
Though the company has not announced a return date, Moka attended Saturday's encore concert as an audience member, cheering on her fellow members and waving to fans.
Her appearance, however, did not mark a return to official activities. She is also expected to miss upcoming schedules, including fan signing events in November.
jaaykim@heraldcorp.com
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