One of the member of rookie girl group Lovelyz temporarily suspended her debut stage following malicious rumors that spread online.

Seo Ji-soo, 20, did not participate in the debut showcase on Wednesday, citing severe mental shock over the recent rumors. It remains unclear when she will officially start her career with seven other members, the agency said.

“Her mental shock is severe. She cannot even drink a sip of water,” the agency said. "She will take rest until she mentally recovers.”

Rumors had spread recently that Seo sexually abused her former homosexual lovers. As they swirled online, the agency decided to take tough measures against the rumormongers and filed a complaint with the police on Tuesday.

The first EP of the eight-member girl group will be released on Monday.

(khnews@heraldcorp.com)