The Japanese member of former K-pop group Nature, Haru, apologised to fans recently after news broke in April that she was working as a "kyabajo" (cabaret girl) at a hostess club in Japan.
The 24-year-old singer and dancer posted a handwritten letter on her social media account on Sunday and expressed regret for causing any worries to Nature's fans, known as Leaf, according to The Korea Herald.
"At 18, I came to Korea alone without knowing the language and debuted with Nature.
"It was truly a valuable and amazing experience. Although there were tough times, I was happy every day, and it was a six-year period of personal growth.
"I want to sincerely apologise to all the fans for causing worry and disappointment with my actions.
"Even though the matter is now resolved, I still regret disappointing all of you. I am truly sorry," she wrote.
Haru added that although her journey as an idol had come to an end, she assured fans that the love and support from Leaf would always remain in her heart and that she would never forget it.
Fans were shocked when a video featuring a picture of Haru was shared on the TikTok account of a Japanese hostess club in April.
The video features a female host, named Sakura Ruru, who revealed that she had "worked as a K-pop idol for six years starting at the age of 18" and was currently raising funds to establish a dance studio.
Haru later confirmed that she was working at the club on her social media account.
She said: "I am working hard to achieve my personal goals in life, and I hope you can support me warmly."
The nine-member girl group Nature announced its disbandment after the controversy involving Haru became public knowledge in April.
Nature, which made its debut in 2018 with its single Girls and Flowers, released its third mini-album in November 2022.
Formed by n.CH Entertainment, the group featured members from South Korea, Japan and China.