K-pop superstar G-Dragon is making headlines for more than just his music.
His recent signing with a label that openly supports Palestine has earned him praise from fans.
Since the Gaza-Israel war began last year, K-pop fans have been demanding entertainment agencies and idols to boycott pro-Israel brands and musicians.
While many K-pop idols received backlash for their association with boycotted brands or Israeli supporters, G-Dragon has set a new example by partnering with label, EMPIRE, which publicly advocates for Palestinian rights.
On October 31 at 6 PM KST, the BIGBANG leader dropped the single “POWER” in collaboration with his agency Galaxy Corporation and Indie label EMPIRE.
EMPIRE has many renowned artists under its wings including Snoop Dog, Kendrick Lamar, Iggy Azalea, Shaboozey, and more.
Ghazi, the founder of EMPIRE, shared his excitement for their partnership, calling him a “Cultural force that laid the foundation for K-pop’s global dominance.”
Ghazi Shami is a Palestinian-American record producer and music technologist, who founded the label in 2010.
After parting ways with YG Entertainment, he signed with Galaxy Corporation and now EMPIRE. He will be embarking on a fresh chapter following his exit from his longtime agency after two decades.
G-Dragon ended his solo hiatus after 7 with the release of “POWER,” which broke nearly a dozen records hours after its release. He has worked with Grammy-winning songwriters including Steven Franks, Theron Thomas, and Tommy “TB Hits” Brown.
Following his solo comeback, fans will get to see G-Dragon perform at the prestigious MAMA Awards 2024 after a long time. BIGBANG is also in talks to reunite for a memorable performance at the ceremony.
Moreover, it is reported that he will announce a solo world tour soon, kicking off with shows in Seoul. His agency Galaxy Music Corporation has partnered with Tencent Music Entertainment Group for his world tour.