Big Bang member G-Dragon's exclusive contract with YG Entertainment expires
The exclusive contract of G-Dragon, member of K-pop boy band Big Bang, with YG Entertainment has expired.
YG Entertainment, which also manages K-pop groups BLACKPINK, Treasure and BabyMonster, confirmed the news on June 6.
G-Dragon (left) and T.O.P (Instagram)
“The exclusive contract with G-Dragon has expired. For other activities such as advertising, we are cooperating through a separate contract,” the agency said. The issue about G-Dragon’s contract surfaced after YG Entertainment released its quarterly financial report in May. Based on this, as of March 31 this year, G-Dragon’s name was excluded from YG Entertainment’s list of singers and actors. YG Entertainment added, “When G-Dragon resumes his music activities, we plan to discuss additional contracts. YG will spare no support for this." G-Dragon debuted in Big Bang in 2006. Meanwhile, T.O.P confirmed last month that he was no longer a member of Big Bang. “I've already withdrawn. I told you guys that I'm leaving and I'm now facing a new chapter in my life since last year,” he posted on Instagram in response to a fan’s question. On April 5 last year, T.O.P wrote a letter to say that he would focus on his personal activities. YG Entertainment previously said T.O.P terminated his contract with the agency to focus on his activities as an artist and entrepreneur. In his letter, T.O.P said, “Finally the music is out. I wouldn't be here without all of YG staff's help. Thank you all for last 16 years. It means a lot to me. I'm thinking. I might be going through another important turning point of my life at the moment.” “I look forward to the day when I'll be able to come back as a man of inspiration in the near future. I'm utmost grateful for my fans. Once again, Thank you,” he said.
G-Dragon (left) and T.O.P (Instagram)
“The exclusive contract with G-Dragon has expired. For other activities such as advertising, we are cooperating through a separate contract,” the agency said. The issue about G-Dragon’s contract surfaced after YG Entertainment released its quarterly financial report in May. Based on this, as of March 31 this year, G-Dragon’s name was excluded from YG Entertainment’s list of singers and actors. YG Entertainment added, “When G-Dragon resumes his music activities, we plan to discuss additional contracts. YG will spare no support for this." G-Dragon debuted in Big Bang in 2006. Meanwhile, T.O.P confirmed last month that he was no longer a member of Big Bang. “I've already withdrawn. I told you guys that I'm leaving and I'm now facing a new chapter in my life since last year,” he posted on Instagram in response to a fan’s question. On April 5 last year, T.O.P wrote a letter to say that he would focus on his personal activities. YG Entertainment previously said T.O.P terminated his contract with the agency to focus on his activities as an artist and entrepreneur. In his letter, T.O.P said, “Finally the music is out. I wouldn't be here without all of YG staff's help. Thank you all for last 16 years. It means a lot to me. I'm thinking. I might be going through another important turning point of my life at the moment.” “I look forward to the day when I'll be able to come back as a man of inspiration in the near future. I'm utmost grateful for my fans. Once again, Thank you,” he said.