K-pop fans were left stunned after VCHA’s KG revealed she is leaving the group and taking legal action against JYP Entertainment.
She made alarming allegations that the company turned a blind eye to a group member’s suicide attempt. The 17-year-old K-pop idol has revealed that neglect, abuse, and a toxic environment drove her to leave the group.
KG created an Instagram account to announce her decision with a long statement, stating, “Yesterday, I filed a lawsuit because I have decided to terminate my contract with JYP Entertainment and exit VCHA after experiencing incidents of abuse and mistreatment by some staff members.”
She apologized to fans for disappointing them, however, shared that staying in the group is not good for her mental health.
She revealed a member tried to attempt suicide, “I am not in support of the working and living conditions that led a member to attempt suicide and added, nor do I support an environment that encourages eating disorders and has led members to self-harm.”
KG opened up about her decision to leave VCHA, revealing she made up her mind back in May and is still waiting to be released from her contract. Her main concern is the well-being of her former group members, whom she considers close friends.
She also shared her passion for songwriting and production, which she felt could not be fulfilled under JYP Entertainment.
She expressed frustration about accumulating significant debt while receiving minimal pay for her intense work. As per a legal document, she received $500 a week and VCHA members were living in a 500,000 USD home, which increased their trainee debt to a significant amount.
The K-pop star acknowledged the valuable training she received and the opportunity to perform globally. She extended gratitude to J.Y. Park, company executives, and staff.
KG emphasized that she does not blame anyone for her negative experiences but views it as a systemic issue within the K-pop industry.
Lastly, she added, “ Thank you V-lights (fanclub name) for your love and support, and I ask you to continue to shine your support towards VCHA, regardless of my absence. I have grown a love for Korean culture and K-pop music. In the future, I’ll continue making music in this genre, but not under these circumstances.”
KG hoped that her departure would lead the K-pop system to make changes for the better and protect idols and trainees from abuse.
