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Manila Bulletin devider Entertainment devider Hallyuwood devider 2 K-pop idols leave agency

2 K-pop idols leave agency

Published Feb 28, 2026 05:59 pm
Hangyul (right) of K-pop boy band BAE173 and Hong Joochan of Golden Child (X, Instagram)
Hangyul (right) of K-pop boy band BAE173 and Hong Joochan of Golden Child (X, Instagram)

Two K-pop idols have left their respective Korean agencies after their exclusive contracts ended. 

They are Hangyul of K-pop boy band BAE173 and Hong Joochan of Golden Child. 

On Feb. 28, Pocketdol Studio announced Hangyul’s departure from the company. 

“First, we would like to thank all the fans who have always loved BAE173. As of February 28, BAE173 member Hangyul's exclusive contract will be ending,” it said. 

It added, “After long and in-depth discussions regarding Hangyul's future direction, we have mutually agreed to finalize the contract. Hangyul has been loved for his boundless passion and talent as an artist under our agency for approximately 10 years since 2016. We would like to express our deepest gratitude for Hangyul's hard work and will sincerely support his future activities. We ask for your warm interest and support as Hangyul embarks on a new journey.” 

While he is no longer a member of BAE173, Hangyul is a member of Polarix, a project boy band formed through an audition program. He was a former member of X1, IM and H&D. 

Hangyul (right) of K-pop boy band BAE173 and Hong Joochan of Golden Child (X, Instagram)
Hangyul (right) of K-pop boy band BAE173 and Hong Joochan of Golden Child (X, Instagram)

On the other hand, Golden Child member Hong Joochan’s exclusive contract with  Woollim Entertainment ended. 

Last Feb. 26, the agency posted the following notice on Weverse: 

“We would like to inform you that the exclusive contract of HONG JOOCHAN, a member of Golden Child, will come to an end.

“Following a long period of sincere and extensive discussions, both the company and the artist have reached a mutual agreement to respect each other’s future paths and to move forward separately.

“We will always cherish the time shared with HONG JOOCHAN and would like to express our deepest gratitude for his dedication, passion, and hard work throughout his activities.

“Woollim Entertainment sincerely supports HONG JOOCHAN as he embarks on a new chapter in his journey ahead.

“We also extend our heartfelt thanks to all fans who have consistently shown HONG JOOCHAN their warm love and support, and we kindly ask for your continued interest and encouragement for his future endeavors.” 

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