The news of SHINee’s Taemin and Onew’s impending contract expirations with SM Entertainment has sent shockwaves through the K-pop community, sparking a flurry of speculation and anticipation regarding the future trajectory of these beloved artists’ careers. Now, the agency has issued a statement addressing the group members’ contracts.
SHINee’s Taemin and Onew Reportedly Leaving SM Entertainment
According to reports from reputable news outlets such as News1 and YTN, Taemin’s exclusive contract with SM Entertainment is set to conclude by the end of the month, also marking a significant milestone in his professional journey. While the details of his future plans remain shrouded in mystery, sources suggest that Taemin will continue his solo endeavors under the auspices of a new agency, while maintaining his group activities with SHINee under SM Entertainment’s management.
Meanwhile, industry insiders have also hinted at Onew’s impending departure from SM Entertainment, with reports indicating that his exclusive contract is also slated to conclude in the first half of the year. With both Taemin and Onew poised to embark on new chapters in their careers, fans are also eagerly awaiting further announcements regarding their future affiliations and projects.
In a surprising turn of events, SPOTV News has reported that Taemin is in talks to sign with Big Planet Made Entertainment, adding an unexpected twist to the unfolding narrative. However, representatives from the agency have also remained tight-lipped about the potential recruitment, refraining from divulging any concrete details or confirming the speculation.
SM Entertainment Addresses SHINee Contract Renewal
It didn’t take long before SM Ent decided to address the news. In an official statement, the company confirmed that group activities will continue.
“SHINee’s activities will continue at SM Entertainment without change, and contracts for individual activities will be decided according to each member’s wishes.”
“We are positively discussing with Minho and Key about not only group activities but also individual activities, and Onew is exploring various options. Our exclusive contract with Taemin expires in March. Taemin’s next course of action following his contract expiration has not been confirmed yet, and we heard that he is considering various options.”
The prospect of Taemin and Onew parting ways with SM Entertainment after 16 years of collaboration marks a significant milestone in their respective journeys as artists. Since their debut as members of SHINee in 2008, the duo has also played an integral role in shaping the landscape of K-pop, delighting fans with their chart-topping hits and captivating performances.
From Onew’s soulful solo endeavors to Taemin’s electrifying solo releases, their contributions to the music industry have been nothing short of extraordinary. As they stand on the precipice of new beginnings, fans are filled with a mixture of excitement and nostalgia, reflecting on the countless memories and milestones shared over the years.
As the countdown to their contract expirations draws nearer, all eyes are also on Taemin and Onew as they prepare to embark on the next chapter of their illustrious careers. Whatever the future may hold, one thing is certain: the legacy of SHINee will continue to shine brightly, illuminating the hearts of fans around the world for years to come.