Lucas, former member of K-pop boy band NCT / Courtesy of SM Entertainment

Despite being embroiled in privacy controversies that led to a halt in his activities, former NCT member Lucas is attempting a return to the entertainment scene. After his 2021 retreat from public view following a series of privacy disputes, Lucas has established official accounts on X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram, hinting at a potential solo career revival amid lingering concerns about his past actions.

Last Wednesday, Lucas opened his official X account, complete with an SM affiliate mark, solidifying his ongoing association with SM Entertainment. The X and Instagram accounts have swiftly amassed over 230,000 and 750,000 followers, respectively, as of Sunday.

Hints of a possible solo debut have also surfaced on his personal Instagram account, where he uploaded a new profile picture.

In another development, on Saturday, Lucas unveiled the first installment of a "LUCAS Documentary" on his newly created X account and official YouTube channel. This 20-minute documentary takes a look into his emotional journey following his prolonged hiatus.

Lucas pressed pause on his career in August 2021 amid a series of privacy disclosures.

The controversy around Lucas erupted when an individual claiming to be Lucas's ex-girlfriend unveiled their private messages, accusing him of gaslighting and financial exploitation. She revealed disturbing details, stating, "He would show up at my apartment and hotel every day, even on his days off, asking for money and more. He even asked me to go buy him cigarettes."

Subsequently, four more individuals came forward as whistleblowers against the idol. They accused him of infidelity and making extravagant demands during their relationships.

In response to the mounting pressure, Lucas acknowledged the allegations and publicly apologized on his social media with a handwritten letter in Chinese, two days after the initial disclosure.

"Upon reflection of recent events, I deeply regret my past actions ... I will suspend all planned activities and take time to introspect," he wrote.

Despite his apology, revelations continued to surface and ultimately, he announced his departure from his groups, NCT and WayV, in May 2023. In his parting statement, Lucas mentioned his intention to pursue individual endeavors, leaving the door open for a solo debut.

This development comes amid a backdrop of other SM Entertainment artists facing their privacy-related controversies, underscoring the industry's ongoing struggle with personal privacy issues.

In October 2020, allegations emerged from an individual claiming to be the ex-girlfriend of EXO member Chanyeol, alleging his infidelity. The allegations remained unanswered by SM Entertainment.

Similarly, Seunghan, a former member of SM's new boy group RIIZE, indefinitely halted all activities just two months after his debut due to controversies surrounding his personal life. He found himself embroiled in controversy after private photos and videos of him were leaked.