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G-Dragon Shares Update On Drug-Related Investigation

G-Dragon’s legal representative has finally shared an update on the ongoing drug-related investigation involving the BIGBANG member. The statement offers some insight into Kwon Jiyong’s cooperation with the police and addresses false information being spread about the case.

G-Dragon Issues New Statement Regarding Drug-Related Investigation

On October 30, G-Dragon’s lawyer Kim Soo Hyun shared a new statement about the drug-relation investigation.

“This is Kwon Ji Yong’s (G-Dragon’s) advisory counsel, lawyer Kim Soo Hyun of K1 Chamber LLP. As clearly revealed already, it is not true that Kwon Ji Yong used drugs,” the statement read.

“Regarding this, Kwon Ji Yong appointed a lawyer and submitted a statement of intent for voluntary attendance to the Incheon Metropolitan Police Agency’s Narcotics Unit of the Regional Investigation Department with the appointed lawyer this morning,” it continues.

“Through the statement of intent for voluntary attendance and a written opinion of counsel, Kwon Ji Yong expressed his intent for voluntary attendance and his intent to actively cooperate with the investigation, and in order to resolve the false accusations as quickly as possible through a rapid investigation process to reveal the truth, he stated to the police that he will actively cooperate with the hair follicle test and urine test. His schedule for voluntary attendance is currently being discussed,” the statement added.

G-Dragon Addresses False Information About Drug Abuse Case

The statement also addressed false information being spread about G-Dragon’s case. It is confirmed that the BIGBANG member intends to pursue legal action against those spreading fake news.

“Recent speculative false reports and YouTube videos regarding this case such as the appointment of a lawyer who is a former constitutional judge and an excessively high lawyer payment are being released thoughtlessly, but we clearly reveal that these are not true at all, and we will take strong legal action against these types of speculative reports for the circulation of false information and defamation,” the statement read.

On October 25, it was reported that G-Dragon had been booked by the Incheon Metropolitan Police Agency under suspicion of violating the Act on the Control of Narcotics, Etc. He later issued an official statement through his legal representatives. Although the statement is brief, it assures VIPs that the BIGBANG member is innocent of the recent drug abuse allegations.

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G-Dragon Breaks Silence on Drug Abuse Allegations

G-Dragon has finally spoken up about his recent controversy. The BIGBANG leader officially addressed the drug abuse allegations and assured fans that he had done nothing wrong.

BIGBANG Member G-Dragon Issues Statement Regarding Drug Abuse Allegations

On October 27, G-Dragon issued an official statement through his legal representatives. Although the statement is brief, it assures VIPs that the BIGBANG member is innocent of the recent drug abuse allegations.

“This is G-Dragon,” the statement read. “First of all, it is not true that I used drugs. Additionally, I would like to clarify that I have nothing to do with the news reports about violating the Narcotics Act that was released by the media.”

“However, I know that many people are concerned, so I will actively and fully cooperate with the investigation being conducted by the authorities,” it concluded.

This is the first time that G-Dragon has addressed the issue after it was reported that the police were looking for him. On October 25, it was reported that G-Dragon had been booked by the Incheon Metropolitan Police Agency under suspicion of violating the Act on the Control of Narcotics, Etc. Importantly, the police clarified that this case is distinct from that of actor Lee Sun Gyun, who is presently under investigation for drug use and recently withdrew from a television drama.

Since then, those who are associated with G-Dragon have shared various statements. Chanel, who the BIGBANG member has been representing as their global brand ambassador, was one of the first to comment on the issue.

“We are aware of the ongoing issue that is G-Dragon’s case,” Chanel’s statement read. “However, we have no official position to share at this time.”

YG Entertainment also issued a statement and confirmed that G-Dragon is no longer signed with the label. “[G-Dragon] is currently not affiliated with our agency as an artist, making it challenging for us to issue an official response,” they said.

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Chanel Addresses G-Dragon’s Drug Use Charges

Chanel has shared its initial stance in response to the drug use charges facing their brand ambassador G-Dragon.

Chanel Issues Statement Regarding G-Dragon’s Drug Use Charges

In a statement provided to the media outlet Ilgan Sports, Chanel issued their preliminary response to the allegations surrounding G-Dragon’s drug use.

“We are aware of the ongoing issue that is G-Dragon’s case,” the statement read. “However, we have no official position to share at this time.”

G-Dragon has been serving as Chanel’s ambassador since 2016. Recently, reports emerged that the police had booked G-Dragon, a member of the popular group BIGBANG, on charges related to drug use.

On October 25, it was reported that G-Dragon had been booked by the Incheon Metropolitan Police Agency under suspicion of violating the Act on the Control of Narcotics, Etc. Importantly, the police clarified that this case is distinct from that of actor Lee Sun Gyun, who is presently under investigation for drug use and recently withdrew from a television drama.

“This is a separate case that has no connection to Lee,” the police said in a statement.

Later that same evening, when approached for comment on the situation, YG Entertainment stated, “[G-Dragon] is currently not affiliated with our agency as an artist, making it challenging for us to issue an official response.”

Notably, YG Entertainment had already disclosed in June that their exclusive contract with G-Dragon had come to an end. This status change was made known prior to the current developments related to the drug-related charges against the artist.

The statement from YG Entertainment is an interesting one considering the agency applied for the renewal of the ‘G-Dragon’ trademark. The iconic stage name was initially trademarked in February 2003 with a 10-year validity. In 2013, the trademark was extended, securing its rights until September 13, 2023. The renewal comes shortly after the BIGBANG member signed what appears to be a distribution deal with another label.

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YG Entertainment Extends G-Dragon Trademark Registration

YG Entertainment has taken a significant step by applying for the renewal of the ‘G-Dragon’ trademark. The iconic stage name was initially trademarked in February 2003 with a 10-year validity. In 2013, the trademark was extended, securing its rights until September 13, 2023. The renewal comes shortly after the BIGBANG member signed what appears to be a distribution deal with another label.

YG Entertainment Reportedly Renewed The Registration of the G-Dragon Trademark

Currently, the trademark renewal process is in progress, and it appears poised for another decade under YG Entertainment’s ownership. This move holds importance as it occurred after G-Dragon’s exclusive contract with the company had expired in June. Speculation is rife about G-Dragon’s potential discussions with Warner Music for a new exclusive contract.

In essence, this renewal action indicates that YG Entertainment will retain ownership of the stage name ‘G-Dragon.’ Consequently, G-Dragon might face restrictions if he chooses to part ways with YG Entertainment and signs with another company, as the stage name’s rights would remain with the company.

The renewal of the G-Dragon trademark comes shortly after rumors of the BIGBANG leader’s departure from YG Entertainment. It was previously reported that the idol has signed a distribution deal with Warner Records. It was believed by many fans that G-Dragon had entered into a distribution deal with Warner Records for his highly anticipated solo comeback. Some have even noticed indications of his affiliation with Warner Music Group through a Google search, which has further fueled speculation about his global music distribution plans through the label.

G-Dragon is currently the last BIGBANG member to stay with YG Entertainment. Taeyang has signed with YG affiliate THE BLACK LABEL while Daesung signed a contract with R&D Company in April 2023. The idols are all expected to continue promoting with their group.

YG Entertainment has not yet confirmed whether G-Dragon is preparing for a solo comeback. Stay tuned for more updates on this story.

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Is G-Dragon Transferring to Another Agency?

In June, YG Entertainment confirmed that the exclusive contract of G-DRAGON with their agency has ended. Since then, fans have been keenly anticipating his next moves.

On Saturday, September 30, G-DRAGON posted a series of photos on his personal Instagram account. One photo specifically prompted fans to speculate on his career developments. 

Said photo showed an electronic display put up by Warner Music Records that read: “Welcome G-Dragon.” This led fans to speculate that the rapper has likely signed with the label. 

Prior to the photos’ release, foreign media reported that the singer visited the  Warner Music Records office in Los Angeles, California. For those who don’t know, Warner Music is one of the top three music labels in the global music industry alongside Universal Music and Sony Music.

With GD’s speculated leap in his career, fans, especially BIGBANG’s fandom VIPs, are thrilled for his return. Earlier this year, the “Crooked” singer announced that he has plans to return with a solo album.

Fans’ thoughts about the next move of G-Dragon

Although there are no official confirmations yet, fans have already brought their sentiments to social media.

Upon seeing the update, VIPs could not hide their excitement for the singer. “If it’s true that G-Dragon signed with Warner, Congratulations! Hopefully we will get music soon,” one wrote.

https://twitter.com/tttoptier131kon/status/1707001128532250988

Other fans, meanwhile, remain skeptical and believe that his visit at Warner Music is only for US promotions.

G-DRAGON’s journey with BIGBANG and YG

Known as one of the leading K-Pop artists, G-DRAGON has spent 23 years with YG Entertainment. From BIGBANG’s debut in 2006, the singer has been with the agency since he was 19 years old.

Composed of members G-DRAGON, T.O.P., Taeyang, Daesung and former member Seungri, BIGBANG has been established as one of the leading K-pop groups from the second generation. The act released numerous hits including “BANG BANG BANG”, “Still Life”, “LOSER”, and a lot more throughout their career. 

Undoubtedly, the group’s leader GD has led BIGBANG to be one of the most influential K-Pop groups in history.

Sadly, BIGBANG went on an indefinite hiatus in 2018, releasing the song “Flower Road.” Said song served as a farewell song while the members completed their mandatory military service.

In 2019, the youngest member Seungri departed from the group after being embroiled in the infamous Burning Sun scandal. 

In 2022, T.O.P. also decided to not renew his contract with the agency, and announced that he would no longer participate in the group. Meanwhile, Taeyang transferred to THEBLACKLABEL, which is a subsidiary of YG Entertainment.

Regardless of whether there’s official confirmation yet or not, fans are already looking forward to G-DRAGON’s comeback as a solo artist.

Featured image: G-Dragon in a concept photo for BIGBANG’s 2015 ‘MADE’ in Seoul DVD. Credit: Facebook/BIGBANG

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BIGBANG G-Dragon Possibly Signed Warner Music Distribution Deal

There is little doubt that G-Dragon’s comeback is one of the most highly awaited releases of the past few years. But is it possible that the BIGBANG leader is taking time to ensure all global fans will get a taste of his music? Several reports suggest that GD has signed a distribution deal with Warner Music to make sure his next album is released internationally.

G-Dragon has been dropping hints about his upcoming album for quite some time, keeping fans eagerly anticipating his return to the music scene. However, YG Entertainment, his agency, has not officially confirmed any details about his comeback.

BIGBANG Leader G-Dragon Welcomed By Warner Music

Recent reports have revealed that G-Dragon is currently in the United States, particularly in Los Angeles, California. Speculation has arisen as he was reportedly seen visiting the Warner Records office in LA. This visit has piqued the interest of fans, who suspect that it could signify a significant development in his career.

Many fans are now speculating whether G-Dragon has entered into a distribution deal with Warner Records for his highly anticipated solo comeback. Some have even noticed indications of his affiliation with Warner Music Group through a Google search, which has further fueled speculation about his global music distribution plans through the label.

While fans eagerly await official confirmation from G-Dragon or YG Entertainment regarding these developments, his potential collaboration with a prominent record label like Warner Records has generated excitement and high expectations for his upcoming music release.

G-Dragon is currently the last BIGBANG member to stay with YG Entertainment. Taeyang has signed with YG affiliate THE BLACK LABEL while Daesung signed a contract with R&D Company in April 2023. The idols are all expected to continue promoting with their group.

YG Entertainment has not yet confirmed whether G-Dragon is preparing for a solo comeback. Stay tuned for more updates on this story.

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Jeon Somi Discusses New Friendship With BTS’ RM

Jeon Somi is opening up about her new friendship with a K-pop superstar. The “Dumb Dumb” singer reportedly discussed how she met BTS leader RM. In addition to that, Somi revealed some interesting details about how she and Kim Namjoon communicate.

Somi Reportedly Talks About New Friendship With RM of BTS

On September 4, an observant netizen took to an online community forum and shared an intriguing post titled, “Jeon Somi Reveals Friendship with BTS’s RM.” In their post, they included a screenshot of an article capturing a noteworthy moment from Somi’s recent fan sign event.

The article highlighted Jeon Somi’s revelation to her fans about her newfound friendship with RM of BTS. According to her, this connection had only recently blossomed, with their initial encounter occurring at G-Dragon’s exclusive ‘PEACEMINUSONE X Nike’ private dinner event. It’s worth noting that PEACEMINUSONE is G-Dragon’s renowned brand, sparking speculations that he might have played a pivotal role in introducing Jeon So Mi and RM to each other.

What piqued the curiosity of fans even more was Jeon Somi’s disclosure that she often engaged in conversations with RM in English. This linguistic connection added an extra layer of intrigue to their blossoming friendship. The revelation stirred excitement within both Somi’s and BTS’s fandoms, further cementing the dynamic nature of the K-pop industry’s interpersonal relationships.

Somi soared to nationwide recognition when she secured the coveted first position on the competitive reality show “Produce 101,” which led to her membership in the eleven-member project girl group, I.O.I. Following the disbandment of I.O.I, she inked a contract with YG Entertainment’s subsidiary, The Black Label. This pivotal move marked the commencement of her solo artist career, with her debut taking place on June 13, 2019. Recently, Jeon Somi signed with Universal Music Japan and is preparing for her Japanese debut.

Meanwhile, RM recently revealed he would “not be taking on any projects in the near future.” This is in connection with his approaching mandatory military service.

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Former YG Artist CL Reunites With G-Dragon, PSY, and Lee Soo Hyuk

CL has reunited with her former YG Entertainment labelmates. The 2NE1 member recently shared a powerful selfie featuring some of the biggest names in K-Pop. In the image, Lee Chaerin shared a meal with BIGBANG leader G-Dragon, “Gangnam Style” rapper PSY, and actor Lee Soo Hyuk.

CL Posts Powerful Selfie With Former YG Labelmates

The photo was shared on CL’s Instagram Story and it confirms there was a mini reunion among present and former YG talents. It features G-Dragon of BIGBANG and Lee Soo Hyuk, who are both still represented by YG Entertainment. In addition to that, PSY, who left the agency in 2018, poses with his former labelmates.

CL herself had left YG Entertainment in 2019 after the disbandment of 2NE1. She then established her own record label Very Cherry and signed a domestic management contract with KONNECT Entertainment in 2021. This way, the company could manage the artist’s activities in South Korea. However, it was recently announced that CL decided not to renew with contract with KONNECT.

Interestingly, this isn’t the first glimpse we’ve had at this awesome reunion. G-Dragon had previously shared an awesome selfie with PSY with the caption “Oppa Hannam-Style”. It is a reference to both artists living in Hannam.

G-Dragon is the only BIGBANG member who remained with YG Entertainment. Taeyang had made the move to the agency’s subsidiary label The Black Label while both T.O.P. and Daesung have terminated their contract with the company. 

G-Dragon and PSY

PSY left YG Entertainment in 2018 and has since started his own agency P Nation. The latest addition to the company is MAMAMOO member Hwasa, who will be releasing her first solo effort since leaving RBW Entertainment.

Lee Soo Hyuk signed with YG Entertainment in 2017. The actor had previously worked with 2NE1, appearing in the music videos for “It Hurts” and “Falling in Love”. He is known for his work on TV shows including “White Christmas”, “What’s Up”, “Vampire Idol”, and “Shark”.

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G-Dragon Takes Epic Selfie With Fellow K-pop Legend PSY

In the dynamic realm of K-pop, few names radiate as brilliantly as G-Dragon and PSY. These two titans of the industry have enjoyed a dazzling reign, capturing the global music scene’s attention and acclaim. Therefore, the recent selfie shared by Kwon Jiyong, featuring himself alongside the iconic “Gangnam Style” singer, holds immense significance.

The King of K-Pop Poses With The King of YouTube in Epic New Selfie

The image, casually posted on G-Dragon’s Instagram story, swiftly ignited a social media frenzy, adding yet another layer to their colossal influence, both within and beyond the K-pop universe. Notably, G-Dragon cleverly captioned it as “Oppa, Hannam Style,” a wordplay that playfully swaps “Gangnam” from Psy’s hit song with “Hannam,” as both artists reside in Hannam-dong.

Their enthralling blend of exceptional musical talents, electric stage charisma, and unmatched performance prowess has catapulted G-Dragon and PSY to stratospheric stardom. The sight of them together in a single photograph is a true delight, showcasing the meeting of two unparalleled forces in the K-pop cosmos. This image encapsulates the convergence of their monumental careers, cementing their status as enduring icons of the genre.

xxxibgdrgn/Instagram

G-Dragon is widely recognized as the “King of K-pop.” In his role as the leader of BIGBANG, he has amassed a staggering collection of accolades, boasting seven Mnet Asian Music Awards, six Melon Music Awards, two Korean Music Awards, two Golden Disc Awards, and two MBC Entertainment Awards, to name just a few of his many honors. Notably, Kwon Jiyong holds the distinction of being the first and only solo artist to clinch the coveted Mnet Asian Music Award for Artist of the Year in 2013.

Meanwhile, PSY is known as the King of YouTube. This was coined after his music video for “Gangnam Style” exceeded one billion views. The MV became the first video to do so in the website’s history. Park Jae-sang performed under YG Entertainment from 2010 until 2018 before starting his own label P Nation in 2019.

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YG Entertainment Addresses BIGBANG’s G-Dragon Contract Renewal Negotiations

YG Entertainment is finally addressing the recent reports about G-Dragon’s contract expiration. The agency issued a statement regarding the issue and confirmed that they are negotiating with the BIGBANG leader.

YG Entertainment Confirms G-Dragon’s Contract Expiration, Renewal Negotiations In Progress

On June 5, several reports reveal that G-Dragon was omitted from YG Entertainment’s Quarterly Report. The table lists all of the agency’s talents in the “Major Contracts and R&D Activities” column. Kwon Jiyong’s omission from the list seemingly confirmed that the BIGBANG member’s contract had expired.

YG Entertainment immediately addressed the reports, claiming that the omission was due to a “system error.” Additionally, the company issued a new statement confirming that G-Dragon’s contract has expired.

It’s true that G-Dragon’s exclusive contract has expired,” a spokesperson for YG Entertainment said. They then added that Kwon Jiyong is in negotiations with the agency for a possible renewal.

“We are currently discussing various options including partial contracts for his activities in areas such as advertisements,” they said. “Should the artist wish to resume his promotions as a musician in the near future, we plan to negotiate a new contract with him and offer him the agency’s full support.”

If the renewal negotiations are successful, G-Dragon will be the last BIGBANG member to stay with YG Entertainment. Taeyang is currently signed with YG affiliate THE BLACK LABEL while Daesung signed a contract with R&D Company in April 2023.

Although they will no longer work under the same label, G-Dragon, Taeyang, and Daesung are all expected to continue group activities as BIGBANG.

In related news, T.O.P recently confirmed his departure from the group. The BIGBANG rapper recently responded to a fan comment on his own Instagram post. Choi Seunghyun claimed that he left the group when his contract with YG Entertainment expired and he is currently working on a solo project.

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