K-pop Idols Leaving Their Agencies: Success Stories and Career Struggles

In the fast-paced world of K-pop, the '7-year contract' is a major milestone that often determines the future of a group. Recently, a new trend has emerged where idols choose to stay with their group for collective activities while moving to different agencies for their individual careers. The most high-profile example is BLACKPINK. In 2023, all four members—Jennie, Jisoo, Lisa, and Rosé—decided not to renew their individual contracts with YG Entertainment. This move was met with cheers from fans who felt the members were 'restricted' under their old label. Since then, Jennie, Jisoo, and Lisa have launched their own labels (OA, BLISSOO, and LLOUD), taking full control of their fashion, music, and acting projects. Their recent dominance at Paris Fashion Week 2024 for brands like Chanel and Dior proves that their individual brands are stronger than ever.

However, leaving a major agency doesn't always guarantee immediate success. Son Naeun's departure from Apink serves as a more complex case study. After ten years with the group, she moved to YG Entertainment to pursue acting. While she has landed roles alongside big names like Bi Rain and Lee Bo Young, she has faced criticism for her 'stiff' acting and has struggled to maintain the same level of 'hype' she had as an idol. On the other hand, legendary groups like SNSD (Girls' Generation) and Super Junior have successfully navigated the multi-agency model. Even though members like Tiffany, Sooyoung, and Seohyun left SM Entertainment years ago, they reunited for a full group album and concert for their 15th anniversary. Similarly, Super Junior members Donghae, Eunhyuk, and Kyuhyun have moved to new labels but continue to participate in all group world tours and albums. This shift in the industry shows that the '7-year curse' is evolving. Idols are now prioritizing personal growth and creative freedom, proving that there is life—and often great success—beyond the walls of their debut agencies. Whether they become CEOs or pursue new artistic paths, the bravery to step into the unknown is becoming the new standard for K-pop veterans.

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