Musician duo Akdong Musician (AKMU) has officially wrapped up their 12-year journey with YG Entertainment, marking a graceful end to the partnership that began with their debut. Attention is now turning to their next steps.
According to an exclusive report by Xports News on November 21, AKMU will conclude their exclusive contract with YG Entertainment at the end of December. Rather than transferring to another agency, the duo is preparing to go independent. They are reportedly discussing the establishment of a new company together with the longtime YG manager who has overseen their activities for years.
A music industry insider shared, “A few months ago, AKMU met with executive producer Yang Hyun Suk over a meal, and their conversation naturally shifted to the group’s direction in the future. After watching the members up close for 12 years, Yang felt that pursuing music in a new environment outside YG could become another driving force for AKMU’s growth. He wished them well in taking that step.”
YG Entertainment released an official statement the same day, confirming the contract expiration and noting that the decision came after in-depth discussions between both sides.
“About six months ago, executive producer Yang Hyun Suk visited the home where the AKMU members live, and they shared dinner,” YG stated. “AKMU’s sole concern was whether to continue with YG, who had been with them through everything for 12 years, or to challenge themselves by going independent.”
During these conversations, Yang reportedly suggested that stepping outside of YG’s umbrella to explore a new environment could be a valuable experience. After careful consideration, AKMU decided to take on a new path. YG added, “Until the very end, the members of AKMU expressed, ‘We will forever be YG Family,’ and said they would gladly return whenever needed.”
YG also expressed gratitude: “It was a great joy for us to witness this brother-sister duo, full of pure passion for music, grow step by step. We extend our heartfelt thanks to AKMU for gifting the public with remarkable music and emotion throughout our time together.”
AKMU previously demonstrated their strong trust in the company by renewing their contract in 2021, seven years after their debut. At the time, Lee Chan Hyuk explained their unusual five-year renewal by saying, “In those seven years, not once did we experience friction or conflict. YG steadfastly supported the direction we wanted to pursue and guided us well when we were young,” expressing deep confidence in the agency.
Throughout their 12-year partnership, AKMU has released numerous beloved hits, including “How can I love the heartbreak, you’re the one I love,” “NAKKA,” “Dinosaur,” “200%,” and “Last Goodbye.”
Now that AKMU has beautifully closed their chapter with the agency that has been with them since their debut, many are eager to see what kind of music they will create under their soon-to-be-established independent label.
SEE ALSO: K-netizens react to AKMU departing from YG Entertainment after 12 years
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