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BTOB’s Yook Sungjae Launches Official X Account After Joining New Agency

BTOB’s Yook Sungjae has officially launched his official X  account managed by his new agency IWill Media. This development follows Yook Sungjae’s departure from his longtime agency CUBE Entertainment, last month and his subsequent signing with IWill Media.

Yook Sungjae Launches Official X Account After CUBE Entertainment Departure

While Yook Sungjae already had a personal X (formerly Twitter) account for his own use, the establishment of an official account under IWill Media indicates a strategic move to streamline his online presence and engage more effectively with fans. In addition to the official X account, Yook Sungjae has also opened an official solo fan cafe, providing fans with dedicated spaces to connect with him and stay updated on his activities.

The decision to join IWill Media aligns with Yook Sungjae’s desire for new opportunities and challenges in his career. His fellow BTOB members have also secured new agency affiliations, showcasing their coordinated efforts to navigate the entertainment industry as a group and as individual artists. Changsub signed an exclusive contract with Fantagio in November, and on December 18, Eunkwang, Minhyuk, Hyunsik, and Peniel signed exclusive contracts together with a newly established company.

Yook Sungjae’s transition to IWill Media is expected to bring fresh perspectives and opportunities for the versatile artist. Fans can anticipate continued growth in his career as he explores various facets of the entertainment industry, including music, acting, and variety shows. The move also positions IWill Media as a prominent player in talent management, with the inclusion of Yook Sungjae adding further momentum to the agency’s trajectory.

As Yook Sungjae embarks on this new chapter, his fans can look forward to witnessing his artistic evolution and contributions to the diverse landscape of Korean entertainment. The official X account and fan cafe serve as key platforms for fans to engage with Yook Sungjae’s journey and celebrate his achievements.

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PENTAGON’s Kino Shares New Profile Photos for New Solo Agency

PENTAGON’s Kino is embarking on a new chapter in his career with the establishment of his solo agency NAKED. The agency recently unveiled captivating profile photos that showcase Kino’s mature and sophisticated aura, signaling his entry into a new phase of solo activities.

Kino Unveils New Photos for Solo Agency

In the released profile photos, Kino exudes a combination of chic charm and gentleness as he gazes into the camera with intense eyes. The restrained yet impressive expression captured in the images adds to the anticipation surrounding Kino’s upcoming solo endeavors.

The concept behind NAKED encapsulates the idea of approaching the public with an unadorned and authentic self. The agency aims to present Kino’s genuine personality, emphasizing freedom, confidence, and authenticity. The thematic profile photos, released under these three categories, visually communicate the youthfulness and sincerity that Kino brings to his solo career.

As part of his solo activities, Kino is set to host a solo performance titled ‘KINO’s Housewarming Party’ at Zepp Haneda in Tokyo on December 22. Additionally, on January 27th, 2024, he will treat fans to ‘KINO: [BORN NAKED] LIVE IN SEOUL’ at the Musinsa Garage in Seoul.

PENTAGON Moves Forward

Following the news that Yeo One, Yan An, Yuto, Kino, and Wooseok did not renew their contracts with CUBE Entertainment on October 9, 2023, Pentagon surprised fans by releasing the digital single “With Universe” on the same day. The release, described as “a letter from Pentagon to Universe,” assured fans that the group was not disbanding despite the members’ departure from the agency.

The upcoming event ‘BORN NAKED,’ scheduled on Kino’s birthday, gained significant attention, with all tickets selling out immediately upon release on the 13th. The overwhelming response underscores the eagerness of fans to support Kino’s solo journey and the anticipation surrounding his birthday celebration.

As Kino steps into the realm of solo activities with NAKED, fans can expect a genuine and unfiltered expression of his artistry, personality, and musical vision. The establishment of his solo agency marks a new beginning for Kino, and supporters eagerly await the exciting developments that lie ahead in his solo career.

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4 BTOB Members Sign With New Agency

Four BTOB members have chosen a new agency to continue their group activities. Eunkwang, Minhyuk, Hyunsik, and Peniel have all decided to sign with a still-unnamed company.

BTOB Members Eunkwang, Minhyuk, Hyunsik, and Peniel Sign with Mysterious Agency

The development comes after BTOB’s 11-year exclusive contract with CUBE Entertainment expired. The members signed exclusive contracts with a newly established company, and details about the agency’s name and plans for BTOB’s activities will be disclosed in the future.

A representative for the agency confirmed the news.

“We plan to present the members being active in various fields in the future,” they said. “As the BTOB members have strong will to work as a full group, we will support them so that they can prioritize group activities.”

BTOB, a popular boy group, made their debut under CUBE Entertainment in 2012, gaining immense love and support for their musical releases, including hits like “Missing You,” “It’s Okay,” “Only One for Me,” and “Wind And Wish.” Over the years, they have become known for their versatility, showcasing a range of musical styles and talents.

BTOB Members Finding New Companies

This recent move follows the footsteps of fellow BTOB member Changsub, who signed an exclusive contract with Fantagio in November. With the addition of Eunkwang, Minhyuk, Hyunsik, and Peniel finding a new agency, Yook Sungjae is currently the remaining member whose future plans have yet to be decided.

The decision by these BTOB members to explore new opportunities with a different agency also marks a significant chapter in their careers. It highlights the members’ commitment to continuing their journey in the entertainment industry and pursuing new projects and endeavors together. Fans of BTOB eagerly await further details about the new agency and the group’s future activities, showing continued support for their beloved idols.

The evolution of boy groups within the K-pop industry often involves members exploring diverse paths while also maintaining a connection with their roots. BTOB’s decision to venture into new territory with a fresh agency also reflects the ongoing transformations within the dynamic world of K-pop, where artists continue to navigate their careers with resilience and creativity.

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(G)I-DLE’s Minnie Shares Health Update During Activity Break

Minnie has broken her silence amidst her current activity break. The (G)I-DLE member has shared a health update to assure fans after she missed the idol group’s most recent schedules.

(G)I-DLE’s Minnie Breaks Silence Amidst Activity Break

In a comforting update for fans, (G)I-DLE’s Minnie took to Instagram Stories on December 17 to provide an update on her health, reassuring everyone who has been concerned about her well-being. The idol had been facing health issues, prompting CUBE Entertainment to announce on December 15 that Minnie would be temporarily halting all activities.

In the Instagram Stories post, Minnie expressed her gratitude and love for the fans who have been supportive during her challenging period. She reassured them that she is receiving treatment and working on getting better. The update from Minnie came as a relief to fans who had been worried after the news of her health concerns emerged.

Minnie Takes a Break After Leaving Stage Early

The initial announcement from CUBE Entertainment on December 15 had stated that Minnie had to leave the stage early during (G)I-DLE’s performance at the Jingle Ball concert in Philadelphia on December 12 due to a sudden worsening of her health. Following that, the agency decided that both Minnie and Shuhua would temporarily take a break from activities to prioritize their health.

As a consequence of their health concerns, Minnie and Shuhua were unable to participate in the group or unit stage of the KBS ‘2023 Music Bank Global Festival’ scheduled for December 15. Despite their absence, the remaining members, Miyeon and Yuqi, participated in the unit stage at the event.

The decision by CUBE Entertainment to prioritize the health and well-being of its artists reflects a growing awareness within the K-pop industry regarding the importance of mental and physical health. Fans continue to show their support and understanding, emphasizing the significance of artists taking the time they need to recover and maintain their overall well-being. The positive response from Minnie’s update reflects the strong bond between (G)I-DLE and their fans, reinforcing the importance of open communication in the K-pop community.

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PENTAGON’s Shinwon To Enlist for Military Duty This December

Shinwon is officially taking a break from the entertainment industry to focus on his duty to his country. Go Shin Won has been confirmed to enlist for military duty later this December. This makes him the fourth member of PENTAGON to enlist for mandatory military service.

PENTAGON’s Shinwon Confirmed to Enlist for Military Duty

CUBE Entertainment officially announced that PENTAGON’s Shinwon is set to commence his mandatory military service on the 21st, as confirmed in a press release. The agency emphasized that there will be no official events on the day of his enlistment, respecting the solemnity of the occasion.

The news comes after Pentagon’s 12th mini-album showcase ‘IN:VITE U’ where Shinwon, alongside his fellow members, engaged in a media showcase. The showcase served as a platform for the group to connect with fans and promote their latest musical endeavor.

Acknowledging the significance of Shinwon’s enlistment, CUBE Entertainment urged fans to refrain from physically visiting his place of duty. Instead, they encouraged supporters to convey their well-wishes and encouragement virtually, fostering a positive atmosphere for Shinwon as he embarks on this new chapter.

CUBE Entertainment’s Official Statement Regarding Shinwon’s Military Enlistment

“Shinwon will begin fulfilling his military duties starting from December 21st, and we would like to inform you that there will be no official events on the day he starts his service. Furthermore, we ask that you refrain from visiting Shinwon’s place of duty and instead encourage him in your hearts so that he can smoothly complete his alternative service,” the statement read.

“We ask for your support and love until Shinwon safely completes his service and returns in good health, and our agency will also spare no support until Shinwon completes his military duty,” it concludes.

Shinwon is the latest PENTAGON member to fulfill his military service duties, following Jinho, Hui, and Hongseok. As he joins the ranks of K-pop idols who temporarily step away to fulfill their national duty, fans express their heartfelt support, awaiting his return with eagerness. The departure of PENTAGON members for military service is not only a personal milestone for each artist but also signifies the unity and camaraderie within the group, reinforcing the commitment of its members to both their individual responsibilities and the collective journey of PENTAGON.

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(G)I-DLE Confirms January Comeback with 2nd Full Album

(G)I-DLE is set to make a highly anticipated January comeback, marking their return after an approximate 8-month hiatus since the release of ‘I feel’ in May of the same year. The news of their upcoming comeback has generated excitement among fans, eager to see what the girl group has in store with their 2nd full album.

(G)I-DLE Preparing for January Comeback to Release Second Full Album

The decision for a January comeback is seen as a strategic move for (G)I-DLE and their agency CUBE Entertainment. The girl group has been a significant driving force for the entertainment company, as evidenced by CUBE Entertainment’s financial performance for the third quarter of 2023. Despite facing recent challenges with other artists, (G)I-DLE’s impact on the company’s success has been noteworthy.

The group’s achievements were further highlighted at the ‘2023 MAMA Awards,’ where they not only secured the ‘Favorite Global Performer Award (Female)’ but also delivered a captivating performance of their hit song “Queencard” on the prestigious Tokyo Dome stage. These accolades and performances have solidified (G)I-DLE’s position as a powerhouse in the K-pop industry.

As fans eagerly await the release of (G)I-DLE’s 2nd full album, there is anticipation surrounding the concept, music, and visuals that the group will present. With their previous successes and the positive reception of their recent releases, the upcoming comeback is expected to be a significant moment for both the group and their fans.

(G)I-DLE’s ability to capture global attention and maintain a strong presence in the industry also positions them as a key player in the evolving landscape of K-pop. As the details of their comeback unfold, it will undoubtedly contribute to their growing legacy and further establish them as one of the leading girl groups in the Korean music scene.

The official January comeback date for (G)I-DLE has not yet been revealed.

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(G)I-DLE Singlehandedly Propelled CUBE Entertainment’s Q3 2023 Financial Performance

CUBE Entertainment has officially revealed its financial performance for the third quarter of 2023. Interestingly, despite recent losses with its current artists, the company confirmed that their flagship artist (G)I-DLE effectively propelled the agency through the third quarter of 2023.

CUBE Confirms (G)I-DLE Boosting Company’s Financial Performance

On November 9, CUBE shared an official statement regarding its financial performance from July to September 2023. In the third quarter, the company reported robust financial performance, with separate basis sales revenue at 22 billion KRW (approximately 16.8 million USD) and an operating profit of 3 billion KRW (approximately 2.3 million USD). These figures represent substantial growth, with a 90% increase in sales revenue and a profitable operating margin compared to the previous year.

By the end of the third quarter, cumulative separate basis sales revenue had reached 65 billion KRW (approximately 49.5 million USD), surpassing the prior year’s annual revenue in just nine months. The company achieved a cumulative operating profit of 10.1 billion KRW (approximately 7.7 million USD), marking the first time it has exceeded the 10 billion KRW milestone since its inception.

Considering subsidiary firms, consolidated basis sales revenue for the third quarter reached 39.1 billion KRW (approximately 29.8 million USD), with an operating profit of 3.4 billion KRW (approximately 2.6 million USD). These figures signify a 50% increase in sales revenue and a remarkable 430% growth in operating profit compared to the previous year. The cumulative consolidated basis sales revenue for the third quarter surpassed 100 billion KRW, reaching 105.8 billion KRW, and the cumulative consolidated operating profit for this quarter was 9.98 billion KRW.

Cube Entertainment’s flagship artist, (G)I-DLE, played a pivotal role in these achievements. Their three consecutive chart-topping hits in 2023, “TOMBOY,” “Nxde,” and “Queencard,” significantly boosted key performance indicators across various domains, such as album sales, digital music, and advertising, culminating in record-breaking cumulative sales for the third quarter.

“(G)I-DLE’s three-fold success and their million-seller status have boosted the intellectual property (IP) value,” a CUBE representative said. “The expanding global fandom has led to a 170% increase in advertising revenue compared to the same period last year, which includes numerous advertising contracts, such as luxury brand ambassadors.”

CUBE Entertainment previously dealt with the departure of six members of PENTAGON. In addition to that, all members of BTOB chose not to renew their contracts with the agency.

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PENTAGON’s Hongseok Leaves CUBE Entertainment

CUBE Entertainment has lost another PENTAGON member. Hongseok has just been confirmed to depart from the agency. This makes Yang Hong-seok the sixth member of the idol group to leave the company.

Hongseok Becomes 6th PENTAGON Member To Officially Leave CUBE Entertainment

On November 6, CUBE Entertainment issued a statement confirming Hongseok’s departure from the agency.

“We are here to inform you that PENTAGON member Hongseok and Cube Entertainment’s exclusive contract has been terminated,” the statement read. “We shared many conversations with Hongseok regarding his activities, and as a result, we made the decision to end our contract.”

“We are grateful for Hong Seok’s hard work, who debuted as a member of PENTAGON back in 2016, and for unsparingly showing his passion and talent as a member of CUBE Entertainment. We look forward to and cheer for Hong Seok’s even more brilliant steps forward,” it continues.

“Please show your warm support and encouragement for Hong Seok of PENTAGON even after his departure from CUBE Entertainment, who will be starting anew,” the statement concluded.

Since the announcement, Hongseok shared a message to his fans on his official Instagram account. “CUBE Entertainment about 9 years together. Thanks to you, I met a team called PENTAGON, I gained a brother. And most of all, meet the UNIVERSE,” he wrote. “It was a series of happy times. Staying cool in front of you, I’ll turn up, Always be grateful!”

On October 9, CUBE Entertainment confirmed that Yeo One, Yan An, Yuto, Kino, and Wooseok decided against renewing their contracts with the company. This makes Hongseok the sixth member of PENTAGON to leave the agency. However, Yeo One also assured fans that the group will continue promoting despite their departure from their former company.

In related news, all members of BTOB decided to leave CUBE Entertainment after 11 years with the company.

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BTOB Officially Leaving CUBE Entertainment

After a long wait, BTOB has finally made a decision about their contracts. All members of the idol group have decided not to renew their exclusive contracts with CUBE Entertainment. However, it has not yet been disclosed whether the group will continue to promote together with different companies.

CUBE Entertainment Confirm BTOB’s Departure

On November 6th, CUBE Entertainment disclosed that their longstanding contract with BTOB has reached its conclusion. After 11 years of collaboration, both parties have amicably decided not to renew the contract, marking the end of an era for BTOB’s journey under the agency.

“We discussed carefully with the members for a long time ahead of the expiration of our second exclusive contract with BTOB, and we made a mutual agreement to not renew our contract,” the statement read.

“With this, CUBE Entertainment and BTOB members Seo Eunkwang, Lee Minhyuk, Lee Changsub, Lim Hyunsik, Peniel, and Yuk Sungjae are wrapping up our 11-year work relationship,” it continued.

The company also expressed their appreciation for BTOB’s fans.

“We would like to thank BTOB for their proud achievements as a member of CUBE Entertainment for a long time, and we thank their fans MELODY for always being supportive of BTOB,” the statement added. “The relationship between CUBE Entertainment and BTOB has unfortunately come to an end here, but we will sincerely support the new growth and shining future of the BTOB members with endless possibilities.”

“Please show your unwavering love to BTOB who will be starting their new journey,” it concluded.

It was previously reported that the agency was hoping that all six members of BTOB would renew their contracts this year. On the other hand, it looks like the idols are ready to explore other possibilities.

The significant development reflects a bittersweet farewell for the group and the entertainment company, as they part ways with mutual respect and appreciation for the time spent together.

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CUBE Entertainment Comments on BTOB Contract Renewal

BTOB poses for their 'Wind and Wish' album. Credit: Facebook/BTOB

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.

 

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

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