Woojin left Stray Kids in October 2019 due to "personal circumstances," as officially stated by JYP Entertainment. The group had to postpone their comeback and re-record songs because of his sudden departure. While the exact reason for his leaving was never publicly confirmed by JYP or Woojin at the time, speculation and controversy followed. Allegations of sexual misconduct surfaced about a year after his departure, which Woojin denied and legally contested, with the accusations later found to be false. Years later, in a 2024 video titled "Reverse: Breaking the Silence," Woojin expressed regret for leaving the group abruptly and mentioned that he was young and focused on his own situation at that time. He also referenced the false allegations he faced but did not reveal a definitive reason for his exit. Fans and some insiders have speculated he may have broken a significant rule or had interpersonal issues with the group, but these remain unconfirmed officially. In summary, Woojin left Stray Kids due to personal reasons not fully disclosed, amid rumors and controversies that were never publicly clarified, and he has since pursued a solo career while expressing regret over how his departure happened.