Choa of AOA, who has been embroiled in controversy over her prolonged break activities, officially confirmed that she would be leaving the group amid rumors she was dating a game company CEO.

(Yonhap)

The singer declared her disbandment via Instagram on Thursday night by writing, “I’ve suffered so much stress and depression during group activities. I’ve taken medication and reduced my schedule for the last two years. But upon realizing that the real problem wasn’t fatigue, I’ve ceased all activities.”

“After discussions with my agency, I decided to leave AOA as of today and cheer up my fellow members.”

Choa’s sudden revelation, however, was immediately followed by a Friday media report that reignited rumors she was dating Lee Suk-jin, CEO of game company Najin Industry. The report claimed that the singer had recently come back from a vacation with Na, unveiling photos of the two taken at an airport. The two were swept in dating rumors back in May, but Choa had denied the speculations.

In response to the report, Choa denied the rumors and claimed that the recent trip to Japan was accompanied by her family, while Na only there for her to assist her.

Choa hasn’t been seen in public since AOA’s March concert. She had addressed fans in May that she was just taking a break and will return in the prime time.

By Hong Dam-young (lotus@heraldcorp.com)