Rocky's Agency Disputes Musical Exit Reason, Contradicts 'Dream High 3' Producer

Former ASTRO member Rocky is pushing back on the reason given for his exit from an upcoming musical. His agency says the decision was not his to make.

One-E-Jin Company, which represents Rocky, released an official statement on July 30 disputing the producer's explanation. "Rocky continued to prepare for the production through ongoing discussions with the producer, but was unable to appear in the show due to the producer's circumstances, not a scheduling conflict," the agency said. It added, "We sincerely apologize to fans who received this sudden and incorrect news through the press."

The response came one day after the musical's producer, Art One Company, announced the casting change through its official social media on July 29. Art One Company told fans that "due to a change in the theater schedule, actor Rocky will unfortunately be unable to join this production due to scheduling issues."

The role of Jason, originally set to be played by Rocky, will be taken over by U-Kwon of Block B for the first run of the show. Casting for later performances will be announced separately.

"Dream High Season 3: Reboot" opens on the 8th of next month. The musical follows young people chasing their dreams, focusing on growth, challenges, and the bonds they build while supporting one another. The cast also includes Se7en, Kang Seung-sik, Lim Se-jun, and Jang Dong-woo.

The public split between agency and producer is unusual in Korean musical theater, where casting changes are typically framed with matching language from both sides. Here, the two statements point at each other, leaving fans to sort out which version to believe just over a week before opening night.