ATEEZ's Hongjoong Expresses Regret Over Poland Festival Cancellation

ATEEZ leader Hongjoong has spoken directly to fans after the group's scheduled appearance at Poland's "SOUND IN COLORS × K-POP EXPOSÉ" fell through, with several other artists also pulling out just days before the festival.

The two-day event was set to take place Aug. 15 and 16 at TAURON Park Śląski in Chorzów, Poland. ATEEZ was among the headliners, with iKON, STAYC, MADEIN, The Wind, AtHeart, TAEMIN and SUHO also included in the lineup.

But in the days leading up to the festival, cancellation notices began coming one after another. ATEEZ, iKON, STAYC, MADEIN, The Wind and AtHeart were among those that withdrew. Agencies pointed to problems on the organizer's side, including unfulfilled contractual obligations and incomplete preparations for the artists' appearances. The festival itself was eventually canceled after much of the lineup dropped out.

After KQ Entertainment announced ATEEZ's withdrawal on Aug. 12, Hongjoong shared a lengthy message with fans through a fan communication platform.

He apologized to the fans who had been waiting for the group in Poland, saying the situation had gone in a direction that was "quite different from our choice." He was particularly concerned about fans who had already made plans and spent money to attend, and said he would talk with the company to see what could be done so they would not be left dealing with the fallout unfairly.

Hongjoong also said he knows fans do not book concerts lightly. He added that the experience made him want to learn more about the events and festivals ATEEZ participates in beforehand.

Fans have since shared his message widely, with many appreciating that he chose to address those affected himself rather than leave the cancellation solely to an agency notice.