In the K-pop industry, idol groups often face a decision after their 7-year exclusive contract period: to renew or transfer to a new agency. Nowadays, with the rise of third-generation idols, it’s become quite common for them to adopt a “separately yet together” approach.
Many idols are leaving their agencies in search of new ones that can support their individual activities without the need to renew contracts. And lately, we’ve been seeing more cases of idols establishing their own one-person agencies with clear goals.
Here are some of the K-pop idols who have established their own agencies to pursue solo endeavors
Jennie of BLACKPINK
Jennie from BLACKPINK recently caught everyone’s attention when she decided not to renew her exclusive contract with YG Entertainment. Instead, she established her own one-person entertainment agency called ODD ATELIER (OA) in November. The Solo singer is co-founding and running it with her mother.
During the recording of ‘The Seasons – Lee Hyo-ri’s Red Carpet’, Jennie explained why she decided to establish her own agency. She mentioned that she wanted to have the freedom and comfort to pursue her personal activities more freely.
Jisoo of BLACKPINK
While it has not been officially confirmed, many reports from Korean media outlets suggest that Jisoo will be joining her brother’s company. Her brother’s company, BIOMOM, is expanding into the entertainment business. The company posted job openings with Jisoo’s photo, announcing its entry into the entertainment sector.
According to the job posting, it seems like the company is going to be called “Blissoo.” Jisoo’s brother mentioned that this startup aims to grow globally and at a faster pace than any other company in the K-pop industry. He also highlighted the unique opportunity for artists to collaborate with a startup, which is not easily found elsewhere.
Kino of PENTAGON
Jennie and Jisoo are not the only K-pop stars to start the trend of establishing entertainment agencies. After parting ways with Cube Entertainment, Kino of PENTAGON established his one-person agency, NAKED, on December 15.
The goal of NAKED is to connect with the public in a genuine and unfiltered way. Kino expressed his excitement about upcoming solo activities, mentioning that he has high hopes for the future with NAKED.
Baekhyun of EXO
Baekhyun from EXO revealed last year that he plans to establish his own private company. He has always had a strong passion for becoming a producer. The EXO member has been vocal about his desire to pursue a career in that field.
It was recently revealed that he took out a loan to establish his own agency, INB100, with two EXO members on board, Chen and Xiumin.
Beakhyun revealed that he has not parted ways with SM Entertainment after establishing his own agency. He will be managing his solo activities under the management of INB100.
Rocky (Former ASTRO Member)
Rocky, aformer member of ASTRO, also started his own agency, One Fine Day Entertainment, last year and released a mini album. At his solo debut showcase, he shared that he established the company because he wants to continue making music and performing for his fans.
Rocky also shared his aspirations of becoming a producer at the showcase. He mentioned that with his experience as a trainee and singer, he wants to eventually build a team and recruit other artists under One Fine Day Entertainment.
His goal is to create an agency that can handle all aspects of entertainment, not just limited to singers or dancers.
Kang Daniel
Kang Daniel had some contract issues with his agency, and it turned out to be a turning point for him to establish his own agency. In June 2019, Kang Daniel became the CEO of two companies: Konnect Entertainment and KD Corporation Ltd.
Konnect Entertainment handles his activities in the entertainment industry, while KD Corporation Ltd. takes care of all his other business-related activities.
Donghae and Eunhyuk (Super Junior – D&E)
Donghae and Eunhyuk from Super Junior left SM Entertainment last year and started their own company called ODE Entertainment in September. Donghae’s composing skills and Eunhyuk’s directing talents were the driving forces behind the establishment of the company.
In December, Eunhyuk shared on their official YouTube channel that the idea behind establishing ODE Entertainment was to create a new vision. Donghae also mentioned that they had many discussions about taking a new path.
Kim Jaejoong of JYJ
After parting ways with C-JeS Studios, Kim Jaejoong established his own agency, iNKODE, in May 2023. He set up the new agency with ex vice president of Cube Entertainment, Noh Hyun Tae.
Kim Jaejoong started his career in 2004 as a member of TVXQ under SM Entertainment. In 2009, he left the group and formed JYJ with Park Yoochun and Kim Junsu, who were also former members of TVXQ.
They signed with C-JeS Studios and had a successful 14-year journey there. However, recently Kim Jaejoong decided to embark on a new adventure by leaving the agency.