Kep1er’s Xiao Ting & Mashiro Test Positive For COVID-19, Girl Group Delays Debut!

The members of Kep1er were picked this year via Mnet's survival program "Girls Planet 999," which ended earlier in October. 

READ: Kep1er To Have Sibling Group? Mnet Confirms Male Version Of 'Girls Planet 999' Coming!

The nine-member K-pop girl, both established and not established in the industry, has members hailing not only in South Korea but from Japan and China as well. Kep1er was slated to make its debut on January 3, 2022, but it seems as though fans have to wait longer to see the members make their debut.

As of writing this article, yesterday on December 14, Kep1er's agencies, WAKEONE and Swing Entertainment, revealed that members Xiao Ting and Mashiro have caught the COVID-19 virus. 

The announcement was made via a joint statement on the K-pop group's fan café website. Notably, fans are saddened as the recent reports come only a week after Kep1er delayed their debut as a staff member previously tested positive for COVID-19.

The announcement explained, "We regret to inform you that as of today (December 14), Kep1er members Xiao Ting and Mashiro tested positive for asymptomatic COVID-19." 

READ: Kep1er Joins Top 5 Most Followed K-Pop Girl Groups On Instagram for November Prior to Debut

WAKEONE and Swing Entertainment added that both Xiao Ting and Mashiro's cases were found after a "regular PCR testing" was done following the previously mentioned staff member's positive diagnosis.

Adding to this, the labels explained, "Other Kep1er members have tested negative without any signs of symptoms or infection such as fever or respiratory disease. All related staff have also been notified of negative results."

Both WAKEONE and Swing Entertainment note that the health and safety of their staff and artists are currently their top priority and that they will fully comply with the instructions and procedures set by the authorities.

Stay tuned for more news and updates regarding your favorite K-pop artists!