A string of top idols such as BLACKPINK, G-Dragon, and members from EXO and SHINee, recently departed from their companies after years together
In the past, idols not leaving their companies on good terms often faced struggles in the Korean industry, even being blacklisted, as exemplified by Jessica from Girls’ Generation and Junsu, Jaejoong, and Yoochun from TVXQ. Even if an idol’s exit was smooth, their careers would frequently lose momentum without the backing of their long-term companies.
However, this seems to be changing. In the past year, the K-pop scene has witnessed a wave of idols departing from their companies while still remaining part of their groups.
Notable examples include BLACKPINK and BIGBANG leaving YG, along with members of SNSD, Super Junior, EXO, and SHINee parting ways with SM. So, what’s behind this situation?
Slave contracts and unfair treatment
For a long period, the public had gotten used to associating idols closely with their respective companies. For instance, mention BLACKPINK or BIGBANG, and one immediately thinks of YG. Similarly, EXO, SNSD, Super Junior, and SHINee are representative groups under SM.
The music style and fashion of idols often reflect the image that their companies have meticulously crafted. Companies are responsible for producing music, organizing activities, and shaping the overall public image of idols. They also become a significant part of idols’ lives, from their early days as trainees to their rise to stardom.
