Is I.M Still in Monsta X: Status Clarified

Current Status Summary

I.M (Choi Issou) is not currently a member of Monsta X. He paused activities with the group in late 2022, officially departed Starship Entertainment in early 2024, and is now pursuing a solo career. As of 2024, Monsta X continues as a seven-member group under Starship without him. This status clarification summarizes verified timelines, reasons, and implications for fans and for the group’s ongoing activities.

Who Is I.M

I.M, born Choi Issou on January 26, 1996, is a South Korean rapper, singer, songwriter, and producer. He joined Starship Entertainment through the 2014 survival show No.Mercy and debuted as the main rapper and the youngest member of Monsta X in May 2015. Over time, he became known for experimental hip-hop styles, introspective lyrics, and significant creative contributions across Monsta X’s discography.

• Role in Monsta X: Main rapper, core songwriter, producer
• Solo work: Released mixtapes and digital singles before and after group activities
• Creative identity: Emphasis on genre-blending and personal storytelling

I.M’s Hiatus and Departure Timeline

I.M’s absence from Monsta X unfolded in phases: first a pause, then a formal exit. Understanding this timeline is essential for distinguishing between past events and the current lineup.

Reasons and Public Statements

Starship’s communications emphasized health and well-being as central factors. While specific private reasons remain between I.M and the company, the publicly stated context focuses on the need for rest and long-term personal stability. Both parties aimed to frame the path forward in a manner that respected his health and professional integrity.

• Health-first approach: Prioritizing recovery and sustainability
• Creative divergence: Space to develop individual artistry
• Mutual agreement: Amicable separation terms between artist and agency

Impact on Monsta X

The departure changed group dynamics and promotional structures. Monsta X continued activities as a seven-member act, adjusting choreography, vocal lines, and content to fit the revised lineup. Fan engagement shifted to supporting both the collective and I.M’s individual endeavors under new arrangements.

Monsta X Lineup After Departure

The active Monsta X roster through 2024 includes seven members. Vocal and rap distribution were recalibrated to maintain musical balance in albums and live settings.

• Shownu (Leader)
• Hyungwon
• Joohoney
• Kihyun
• Minhyuk
• Lee Know
• I.M (until February 2024)

Solo Career and Future Directions

Since leaving Starship, I.M has signaled interest in controlling his artistic narrative, including production credits and direct fan communication. Although formal solo releases may require new label alignment, his focus on independent growth suggests continued creative evolution outside the Monsta X framework. Supporters weigh continuity of fandom between group and solo trajectories.

Common Misconceptions

Confusion often arises between hiatus and permanent exit, or assumptions about contract status. Clarifying facts helps align public understanding with the verified timeline and terms of separation.

• Not a hiatus alone: contract was formally ended in 2024
• Not due to conflict: widely reported as health and personal growth reasons
• Not a temporary leave: legal ties with Starship concluded

Fan Guidance and Considerations

Fans navigating identity, community resources, and content support can benefit from practical steps that respect both past connection and current realities. These actions support emotional well-being and constructive engagement.

• Update labels and streaming profiles to reflect current group status
• Engage with official channels for Monsta X and I.M for accurate news
• Join moderated spaces that prioritize mental health and respectful discourse
• Support solo projects through appropriate legal platforms