THE BOYZ, the popular K-pop group, is reportedly not renewing their contract with IST Entertainment.
As reported by Ten Asia on September 23, they will leave IST Entertainment, a subsidiary of Kakao Entertainment when their contract expires in mid-December. In fact, they are exploring opportunities with other agencies.
According to the Korean media outlet, THE BOYZ members are actively reaching out to agencies that align with their musical vision and prioritize transparency. Industry insiders suggest that the group is close to making a final decision with a specific agency.
Regarding this, IST Entertainment stated, “The exclusive contract with THE BOYZ has not yet expired. We are planning to continue discussions with the members.”
As per the Korea Entertainment Management Association’s regulations, a K-pop group is allowed to discuss contact with other agencies within three months of contract expiration.
With only three months left on their contract, THE BOYZ members have begun exploring options with other agencies and wish to continue promoting as a full group. Despite potential agency changes, the members are committed to staying together.
However, uncertainty surrounds the group’s name, as IST Entertainment owns the trademark rights to “THE BOYZ.” This may lead to negotiations over the name’s use or sale. If unresolved, the group might follow in the footsteps of other acts that changed their name after leaving their agency.
Another option could be that they pursue group activities under IST Entertainment and sign with other agencies for individual activities.
Formed by IST Entertainment in 2017, THE BOYZ was originally a 12-member South Korean boy group. It reorganized into an 11-member group after Hwall’s departure in 2019. Debuting on December 6, 2017, with “Boy,” they gained popularity with hits like “Giddy Up” and “No Air.”
On another note, they are set to make a comeback in October, 7 months after their last release.