K-pop group Seventeen have entered self-quarantine after they were identified as close contacts of COVID-19 cases, resulting in the postponement of promotional events. “We would like to announce that SEVENTEEN’s promotional activities for their 8th mini-album have been postponed,” read the translation of a statement from the group’s PLEDIS Entertainment management company.
“A media production took place on Tuesday, June 15 in preparation for SEVENTEEN’s 8th mini-album comeback. One HYBE staff member and one external staff member who were present on site were confirmed as COVID-19 cases on Friday, June 18 and Saturday, June 19, respectively.” According to the statement, all 13 members of the act will be under quarantine until June 29.
“As soon as initial symptoms appeared for the first confirmed case in the evening of June 17, the artists used self test kits to confirm that they were negative for COVID and underwent additional PCR testing as a preemptive measure; all artists were found to be negative when the results were returned in the morning of June 18,” the statement continued. “The artists currently are showing no symptoms whatsoever that may indicate an infection, such as fevers or respiratory disorders.” A spokesperson for the group confirmed the temporary halt in activities.
While the statement notes that all staff on site at the June 15 shoot took self-tests as well as PCR tests, all but two results were negative for COVID and only staffers who were confirmed negative took part in activities after June 18. “However, on Saturday evening, June 19, health authorities informed us that they have classified the artists as well as all on-site staff that took part in the Tuesday, June 15 production as close contacts and requested that affected individuals undergo self quarantine from the night of June 19 to June 29,” it continued.
Because of health protocols, all planned appearances to promote the group’s eighth mini-album, Your Choice, have been postponed, including Sunday’s (June 20) Your Choice online Fan Sign event. A new schedule of events will be posted after the group’s quarantine is completed.
See the statement below.
