Taiwan Boyband Energy Suspends Activities After Members Admit to Dodging Military Service

Taiwanese boyband Energy made a massively successful return in January 2024 after nearly two decades away, even clinching Song of the Year at this year’s Golden Melody Awards for their comeback hit Friday Night.

However, the five-member group — comprising Chang Shuwei, Kunda Hsieh, Edy Hsiao, Milk Yeh, and Toro Kuo — has since been hit by controversy.

The Taiwanese government is currently investigating an alleged “military evasion ring“, with at least 11 male celebs suspected of avoiding mandatory conscription through forged medical documents.

Energy members Kunda and Shuwei, both named in the probe, have admitted to evading military service and have been released on bail.

The case has ignited heated debate across Taiwan, with many questioning the accountability of public figures and the impact on the entertainment industry.

On October 23, Energy issued a statement announcing that the group would suspend all public performances until June 30, 2026, in light of the investigation.

“During this period, the group will continue participating in charity and public welfare projects that were previously agreed upon, and will proceed with the concert scheduled for January 2026 at the Taipei Arena to honour our commitment to fans,” the statement read.

The group also apologised to the public and their supporters: “We sincerely apologise for the disappointment and disruption this incident has caused. We also extend our deepest apologies to those affected by changes in our plans. The company will actively manage the consequences and cooperate with authorities to find appropriate solutions.”

Energy was originally scheduled to perform with Japanese dance group Avantgardey in Taiwan on October 31, followed by concerts in Shenzhen and Chengdu in November, and two Taipei Arena shows next January. All shows — except the 2026 Taipei concerts — have been cancelled.

The statement concluded with an acknowledgment of wrongdoing by the two members: “Kunda and Shuwei made a serious mistake they deeply regret and are fully cooperating with the ongoing investigation. Energy takes full responsibility for this matter and hopes to rebuild public trust through real action.”