Lee Chaeyeon is leaving WM Entertainment after seven years under the agency. On September 12, WM Entertainment announced that the exclusive contract with Lee had been terminated after lengthy discussions, describing the decision as mutual.
In a statement, WM expressed deep gratitude to Chaeyeon, recalling her journey from a trainee to an artist who grew alongside the agency. They noted her achievements as both a member of IZ*ONE and later as a soloist, while pledging support for her next steps.
After long discussions with Lee Chaeyeon, we have mutually agreed to terminate her exclusive contract. We will continue to provide support to ensure that her scheduled activities can proceed without issue.
We sincerely thank Lee Chaeyeon, who has grown with us through IZ*ONE and as a solo artist, for the long-standing relationship we’ve shared. We will also wholeheartedly support her as she begins this new chapter.
The 25-year-old singer first drew public attention as a WM trainee competing on Mnet’s Produce 48 in 2018. She secured a place in the final debut lineup of IZ*ONE, where she performed as the group’s main dancer and vocalist until its disbandment in 2021. Her time with IZONE, which became one of the most successful project groups in K-pop history, helped her grow a fanbase.
Following IZ*ONE’s conclusion, Lee Chaeyeon pursued a solo career beginning in 2022 with her debut single “Hush Rush.” She went on to release tracks like “Knock” and “Let’s Dance,” with strong choreography and catchy hooks.
In addition to music, Chaeyeon recently expanded into acting. In August, she led the drama “Looped in Life and Death,” where she played Kim Yoo Jung, the leader of a popular idol group caught in a mysterious time loop. This followed her acting roles in Fresh Romance and Bread, Love, and Dreams.
As Lee Chaeyeon closes her chapter with WM Entertainment, anticipation is high for her next move.
