K-pop act Infinite has parted ways with member Hoya, regrouping itself as a six-member boyband.

Woolim Entertainment said Wednesday that its contract with Hoya has not been renewed after expiring on June 9.

“During Hoya’s negotiation with us, he sought a different path in search of his dreams. The company and the members (of Infinite) decided to respect his decision,” it said.

(Woolim Entertainment)

Hoya’s departure marks the first time that Infinite has seen a change in members since its 2010 debut. It also left the fans and local media buzzing over it falling prey to the so-called “seven-year jinx.”

It is customary for debuting idol singers to sign management deals with their agency for about seven years, and many groups have disbanded or had members leave the team when the contracts expired.

4Minute, 2NE1 and Secret all disbanded in their seventh year, and Girls’ Generation saw member Jessica leave seven years after its debut.

By Yoon Min-sik (minsikyoon@heraldcorp.com)