f(x) members down with influenza, halts activities

Girl group f(x) has been forced to halt promotion of their album after three of its members -- namely Amber, Krystal and Sulli -- were found to be infected with the H1N1 influenza virus.

Their agency SM Entertainment said Monday that the three girls went to the hospital the previous night after showing symptoms of a cold and were diagnosed with the flu today.

SM added that the two remaining members of the group -- Luna and Victoria -- also underwent tests as precautionary measure but were found to be free of the virus.

Accordingly, the entire group will put off their activities until every member recovers and plan on cancelling their appearance at the "K-Pop Night" concert set for Wednesday in Shanghai, China.

The f(x) members are the latest in a string of celebrities, including SS501 leader Kim Hyun-joon, SHINee members Jonghyun and Onew, 2AM member Jo Kwon and singer Lee Seung-gi who have been affected by the dreaded flu strain.

f(x), one of the newest idol groups in Korea, debuted in September with digital single "LA chA TA" and recently released their first single album "Chu~♡" two weeks ago.

Jessica Kim jesskim@asiae.co.kr