Amidst reports of the members’ contract expiration, CUBE Entertainment revealed that the discussion on the BTOB members’ renewal is still underway.
On Wednesday, November 1, a media outlet claimed that K-pop boy group BTOB is currently engaged in negotiations with agency CUBE Entertainment for a second contract renewal. And as of now, no official agreement has been reached.
[ARTICLE] The status of contract renewal between BTOB and CUBE still remain unclear. According to the insider from music industry, they have yet to reach an agreement for renewal. 5 out of 6 members contract has been expired. CUBE decided to hold openly the discussion with the… https://t.co/6sQP45d5XO pic.twitter.com/rkVCMAvFqM
— BTOB Supports (@BTOBSupports) October 31, 2023
Additionally, some reports also hinted at the possibility of some BTOB members exploring the prospect of moving to different agencies.
Meanwhile, other reports claimed that BTOB is keen on staying together as a group even if they part ways with CUBE Entertainment.
Furthermore, various outlets went as far as claiming that members have been in contact with multiple agencies. Some of which have reportedly offered substantial fees, such as up to ₩6 billion as a down payment to secure the group in their roster.
In response to the reports, CUBE Entertainment issued a brief statement on the ongoing discussion. “As some BTOB members’ contract periods have not yet ended, we plan to do our best until the contract terms conclude. The members are also exploring various options and sorting out the situation,” they said.
As to the reported contract fee of ₩6 billion, the agency clarified that it’s unrelated to Cube Entertainment. Hence, they won’t be able to properly comment on it.
What’s next for BTOB?
Speculations surrounding BTOB’s contract renewal began gaining momentum in late August when several media outlets claimed that the members’ contracts were set to expire by September. As of writing, there’s still no official decision and indication as to what will happen next to the group.
Known for their incredible vocal talent and versatility, BTOB debuted under CUBE Entertainment in 2012 as a seven-member group. In 2018, all the members renewed their exclusive contracts with CUBE Entertainment, solidifying their commitment to continue their journey together.
Since their debut, the group has not only achieved immense success in the K-pop music scene but also ventured into various fields, including dramas, variety shows, and musicals.
In December 2020, Ilhoon left the group, reducing their lineup to six members. Currently, the members include Seo Eun-Kwang, Lee Min-Hyuk, Lee Chang-Sub, Im Hyun-Sik, Peniel Shin, and Yook Sung-Jae.
In May, the group released their 12th mini-album Wind and Wash.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding their contract renewal, fans are eagerly awaiting for BTOB’s decision. Many of their fans are already showing support for any possible outcome.
Featured image: BTOB poses for their ‘Wind and Wish’ album. Credit: Facebook/BTOB
