Tag: YG Entertainment

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BLACKPINK Announces 2025 World Tour

It’s finally official: BLACKPINK is set to light up the stage on their 2025 world tour, and fans couldn’t be more excited!

BLACKPINK Drops 2025 World Tour Teaser

On February 6 at midnight KST, the group released an electrifying teaser announcing their plans to embark on a global tour in 2025. The teaser’s dynamic visuals and energetic vibes left fans buzzing, promising that the tour will deliver unforgettable live performances and showcase the iconic charisma that BLACKPINK is known for.

While details about the tour’s dates, venues, and setlists remain under wraps, fans can rest assured that more information will be revealed soon. This announcement comes on the heels of a strategic update from YG Entertainment. Founder Yang Hyun Suk had previously shared a special announcement video outlining major plans for the label in 2025, emphasizing that BLACKPINK has several big projects lined up despite the members currently focusing on their individual solo ventures. This balanced approach highlights YG Entertainment’s commitment to both nurturing the group’s collective power and supporting each member’s personal artistic journey.

Reflecting on their recent achievements, BLACKPINK has continued to engage with BLINKs in innovative ways. In 2024, the group celebrated their 8th debut anniversary with a special fan sign event that created cherished moments with their dedicated fans. They also released the concert film “BLACKPINK WORLD TOUR [BORN PINK] IN CINEMAS” on August 31, a record-setting film that captured the explosive energy of their “BORN PINK” world tour. Screening in over 110 countries, the film became the most widely viewed concert film by a girl group to date.

The quartet poses during their ‘Born Pink’ encore concert in Seoul. Credit: Facebook/BLACKPINK

As BLACKPINK gears up for this new tour, anticipation is building worldwide. Fans are eagerly awaiting further details on what promises to be another groundbreaking chapter in the group’s illustrious career. Stay tuned for more updates on BLACKPINK’s upcoming tour and prepare for a spectacular global celebration of music and performance.

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YG Entertainment Addresses AKMU Lee Chanhyuk Dating Rumors

YG Entertainment has issued a brief response to the recent dating reports involving AKMU’s Lee Chanhyuk.

YG Entertainment Releases Brief Statement in Response to AKMU’s Lee Chanhyuk Dating an Actress

On January 23, it was reported that Lee Chanhyuk is in a relationship with actress Ha Ji Su. The two reportedly grew close after collaborating on the project group Leechanhyukvideo and its album ‘Umbrella’, which was released in June 2023. Ha Ji Su starred as the female lead in the music video for “Dance,” one of the album’s double title tracks. Their shared creative journey is said to have brought them together.

In response to the dating news, YG Entertainment stated, “It is difficult to confirm matters regarding private life,” maintaining their stance on respecting the artist’s privacy.

This comes shortly after another report on January 21 claimed that Lee Chanhyuk had broken up with fromis_9’s Lee Saerom last year. The two were rumored to be dating in October 2022 following sightings of them together at a workshop and social media posts suggesting they were in the same locations. However, neither YG Entertainment nor PLEDIS Entertainment confirmed the rumors at the time, both opting to protect their artists’ personal lives.

Lee Chanhyuk’s talent and artistry have always been the focus of his career, with AKMU continuing to thrive as one of K-pop’s most beloved duos. Fans have shown understanding and support for the artist, expressing their hopes for his happiness regardless of the rumors.

Ha Ji Su, who gained attention for her performance in the “Dance” music video, has also been lauded for her talent and captivating on-screen presence. The potential relationship has drawn attention to their collaboration and sparked interest in their personal and professional lives.

As always, YG Entertainment has chosen to prioritize its artist’s privacy, leaving fans to respect their choices and personal boundaries.

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YG Entertainment to End Actor Management Operations

It’s the end of an era. YG Entertainment has announced that they will cease actor management operations.

YG Entertainment Ends Actor Management Operations to Refocus on Music Business

On January 17, YG Entertainment officially announced that they would be ending their actor management operations as part of a strategic business restructuring. This decision marks a shift for the agency as it refocuses its efforts on its core expertise: the music industry.

“We sincerely thank all the actors who have been with us and fans who have shown them so much love. We will spare no effort in providing the necessary support until the very end,” the statement read.

“We have consistently worked on restructuring our business to focus on our core operations. We are positioning 2025 as the inaugural year where these efforts will bear fruit,” it added. “While enhancing the sustainability of our existing IP (intellectual property), we will also accelerate the discovery and development of new IP. By continuously strengthening our core competencies and solidifying our leadership in the music industry, we aim to write a new chapter in YG’s growth story.”

Over the past few years, YG Entertainment has gradually streamlined its operations by phasing out less profitable business sectors. In 2023, YG absorbed YGX, its subsidiary, into its Global Training Center, consolidating its resources and expertise. Furthermore, YG significantly expanded its in-house producer team, growing from approximately 10 members to over 50, signaling its commitment to strengthening its music production capabilities.

YG Entertainment currently manages a talented roster of actors, including Cha Seung Won, Yoo In Na, Claudia Kim, Lee Sung Kyung, Jang Ki Yong, Lee Soo Hyuk, Han Seung Yeon, and Son Na Eun, among others. However, the company is now exploring partnerships with external agencies to ensure a smooth transition for its actors as it exits the field of actor management.

This restructuring reflects YG’s determination to lead the music industry by honing its resources and bolstering its artist development, production, and global outreach efforts. Fans eagerly await how this renewed focus will shape YG’s future projects and music innovations.

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YG Entertainment Teases Big Plans for BABYMONSTER Comeback

BABYMONSTER is gearing up for an exciting comeback! YG Entertainment has confirmed that they have big plans for BABYMONSTER first full album!

YG Entertainment Shares Big Plans for BABYMONSTER

On September 23, YG Entertainment officially announced that they are in the final stages of preparing for the group’s highly anticipated return with their first full-length studio album, set to be released this fall. According to the agency, they have already started producing multiple music videos for the upcoming album, including the title track.

This large-scale project will receive full backing from YG Entertainment, ensuring that BABYMONSTER’s comeback is impactful and visually stunning. Filming will also take place at various pre-secured locations, reflecting the ambitious nature of the project.

YG Entertainment’s announcement also emphasized that all recordings for the album have been completed, and they are now adding the final touches to ensure a high-quality release. In addition to the music videos, choreography for several of the tracks has also been finished, signaling that the group is ready to showcase their dynamic performances.

BABYMONSTER has also been steadily rising as a promising new girl group under YG Entertainment, known for their fresh sound and powerful stage presence. With this full-length album, the group aims to establish themselves further in the global music scene. YG Entertainment also hinted at a “bigger new start” for the group, highlighting the agency’s plans to introduce BABYMONSTER to fans abroad through this release, suggesting that international promotions may be part of the strategy.

Fans are also buzzing with anticipation, eager to see what BABYMONSTER will bring with their new music and performances. As the group continues to make waves in K-pop, this comeback is also expected to further solidify their growing popularity.

For now, the release date for BABYMONSTER’s first full album has not yet been revealed. Stay tuned for more updates on BABYMONSTER’s exciting return!

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YG Entertainment Announces Legal Action Against Inappropriate AI Deepfakes

YG Entertainment has recently announced its decision to take legal action against the creators of inappropriate AI deepfakes featuring their artists.

YG Entertainment Vows Legal Action Against AI Deepfakes

On September 2, the company posted an official statement in English on its website, making clear its intent to protect its artists from these malicious acts.

“We are continuously monitoring these extensive and malicious illegal activities, actively working to remove and block such content. We are also pursuing all possible legal measures, including criminal proceedings, to address these issues,” the statement read.

It concluded, “We are committed to firmly and rigorously responding to any illegal acts that significantly harm the dignity and reputation of our artists.”

BLACKPINK is one of YG Entertainment’s artists that were featured in the controversial AI deepfakes

This decision is a response to a disturbing trend that has gained traction online, where AI-generated deepfake pornography targeting female idols has been circulating in various chatrooms. These chatrooms, which were originally designed to humiliate and degrade women, have become a focal point of public outrage after their existence was exposed earlier this month. The issue was first brought to light when similar deepfake content was discovered being shared in school chatrooms, where explicit images and videos of classmates were being disseminated.

Entertainment Companies Vs AI Deepfakes

YG Entertainment’s announcement marks it as the third major entertainment company to take a firm stand against the creators of these harmful deepfakes. JYP Entertainment was among the first to declare legal action, aiming to protect the members of TWICE, who were also targeted by these videos. Following JYP’s announcement, FCENM also declared its intention to safeguard the members of ILY:1 from similar attacks.

These actions reflect a growing awareness and determination within the entertainment industry to protect their artists from the damaging effects of deepfake technology. By taking legal measures, YG Entertainment and other companies are sending a strong message that such violations of privacy and dignity will not be tolerated, and that they are committed to the well-being of their artists.

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YG Entertainment Finally Updates 2NE1 YouTube Channel After 7 Years

After a lengthy seven-year hiatus, YG Entertainment has finally breathed new life into the official 2NE1 YouTube channel, much to the delight of fans worldwide. The update comes just in time for the iconic girl group’s highly anticipated comeback tour.

2NE1 YouTube Channel Gets Updated After 7 Years

The last video uploaded to the account was the music video for “GOODBYE,” a poignant track that many fans regard as the group’s farewell anthem before the members pursued their solo careers. The song, composed by CL herself, marked the end of an era for 2NE1, one of K-pop’s most iconic girl groups.

On August 15, 2024, YG Entertainment surprised fans by uploading a new video: CL’s performance at TREASURE’s encore concert in Seoul. This unexpected update on 2NE1’s dormant channel struck a chord with fans, who were flooded with emotions as they saw the new video alongside the “GOODBYE” music video. CL’s guest appearance at the concert was unannounced, making her performance a thrilling surprise for attendees and viewers alike.

As one of YG’s legendary artists and a pioneer in the Hallyu wave, CL’s stage presence captivated not only TREASURE’s fans but also sparked widespread admiration across the internet. Netizens were quick to praise her, celebrating her enduring influence and unmatched charisma.

During the concert, CL performed two of her iconic tracks, “THE BADDEST FEMALE” and “MTBD,” delivering powerful live renditions that left the audience in awe. The younger artists of TREASURE, as well as the fans, were visibly honored to share the stage with such a trailblazer in the industry.

Adding to the excitement, 2NE1 is set to reunite for a special three-day concert titled “2024 2NE1 CONCERT [WELCOME BACK]” at the Olympic Hall in Seoul this October. Following their Seoul performances, the group will continue their reunion tour in Japan in November and December, marking a highly anticipated comeback that fans have eagerly awaited for years. This reunion promises to be a monumental event, celebrating the legacy of 2NE1 and their lasting impact on the K-pop industry.

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Weverse, YG Plus, SM, and JYP Refund Violation Accusations

The Korea Fair Trade Commission sanctions major K-pop companies for illegal refund practices

The Korea Fair Trade Commission (KFTC) has taken action against several major companies in the K-pop industry. This includes Weverse Company, YG Plus, SM Brand Marketing, and JYP 360. These companies, which handle the online sales of idol merchandise, faced sanctions for illegal refund practices that unfairly targeted consumers, particularly teenagers.

The KFTC discovered that these companies have been shortening the legally mandated refund period. Under current e-commerce law, customers are entitled to withdraw from a purchase within three months or within 30 days of discovering a defect. However, Weverse Company and others informed customers that even defective products could only be refunded within seven days. Additionally, they imposed unreasonable restrictions, such as requiring video evidence of the unboxing process to qualify for refunds.

This behavior, known in Korea as “gapjil” (abuse of power), effectively shifted the burden of proof onto the consumers, violating e-commerce laws. These practices not only limited customers’ rights but also exploited the loyalty of teenage fans, who are less aware of their legal protections.

   

The idol merchandise shops of the four biggest K-Pop agencies, Weverse, YG Plus, JYP 360, and SM Brand Marketing, have been sanctioned by Korea’s Fair Trade Commission. Photos via Wikimedia Commons.

In response, the KFTC issued corrective orders and imposed fines totalling 10.5 million KRW (approximately 7,740 USD) on the companies involved. Weverse Company was fined approximately 3 million KRW (2,210 USD), while YG Plus, SM Brand Marketing, and JYP 360 each received fines of 2.5 million KRW (1,840 USD). The fines were reduced as the companies voluntarily corrected their practices following the investigation.

A KFTC representative emphasized protecting teenage consumers in the entertainment industry and stated that the commission would continue to monitor for similar violations. They warned that stricter penalties, including business suspensions, could follow if such practices persist.

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HYBE and Other Three Big Agencies’ Online Stores Fined By Fair Trade Commission

The Fair Trade Commission (FTC) fined South Korea’s four largest K-pop entertainment companies—HYBE, SM, YG, and JYP—for violating e-commerce consumer protection laws. On August 11 KST, the FTC imposed a total fine of 10.5 million KRW (approximately $7,700 USD) on these agencies and issued corrective orders to ensure they comply with the ‘Electronic Commerce Act’.

The FTC penalizes the Big 4 K-pop agencies for violating consumer protection laws in their online stores

Fair Trade Commission found that these companies set excessively strict and unfair conditions for refunds on idol-related merchandise, including albums and official goods. The FTC highlighted practices like shortening the legally mandated refund period and requiring unreasonable documentation, such as filming product unboxings to qualify for refunds when items were missing.

Weverse Company, associated with HYBE, received a fine of 3 million KRW. SM Brand Marketing (SM), YG Plus (YG), and JYP Three Sixty (JYP) were each fined 2.5 million KRW.

Among the violations, SM’s policy required customers to return products due to a change of mind within seven business days of delivery, which goes against the law, allowing customers seven days from the receipt date to decide on a return. SM and JYP also broke the law by demanding that customers submit claims for defective or incorrect items within seven days of delivery, while the law permits returns within three months from receipt or 30 days from discovering the defect.

The companies also denied compensation for lost items after a specified period, restricted returns if packaging was opened or damaged, and demanded video proof of unboxing for claims of missing items. These actions placed an undue burden on consumers, violating legal protections that should favor the buyer.

Korea’s Big 4 K-Pop Agencies face fines ordered by the Fair Trade Commission. The 4 agencies have revised policed to comply with FTC’s terms. Photos via Wikimedia Commons.

Moreover, in response to the FTC’s findings, all four companies corrected their policies voluntarily, which led to reduced fines. However, the FTC’s actions serve as a reminder of the importance of fair consumer practices in the e-commerce space, especially within the influential K-pop industry.

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YG Entertainment Announces BABYMONSTER World Tour in Late 2024

Get ready for the BABYMONSTER World Tour! YG Entertainment has just confirmed that the new girl group will be touring the globe with their music later this year.

BABYMONSTER World Tour Confirmed for Late 2024

The news was confirmed in a special announcement video featuring YG Entertainment founder Yang Hyun Suk. In the video, Yang shared the company’s major plans for 2025. This included the BABYMONSTER world tour that will kick off before the end of 2024.

“BABYMONSTER…will start their world tour at the end of this year,” Yang said in the video.

It’s truly exciting news for BABYMONSTER who just made their debut in April 2024. Although they dropped two pre-release singles in 2023, the group was missing member Ahyeon who was in hiatus due to health reasons. Luckily, Ahyeon rejoined the team for the release of their debut EP ‘BabyMons7er’ in April this year.

A Big Year for BABYMONSTER and YG Entertainment

It has also been confirmed that BABYMONSTER is preparing for the release of their first studio album later this year. It was previously reported that the LP would be dropped around October. Although Yang previously mentioned October in the video, the English subtitles intriguingly translated his statement to “either September or October,” leaving some room for speculation and anticipation. The album will be BABYMONSTER’s first full-length project, marking a significant milestone in their career and promising a comprehensive showcase of their musical range and growth.

BABYMONSTER isn’t the only YG Entertainment girl group who is set for a major comeback. Yang Hyun Suk also announced the return of 2NE1 who will then embark on a new global tour in 2025. Moreover, the founder confirmed that BLACKPINK is getting ready for a 2025 comeback which will be supported by a new world tour.

Needless to say, 2025 is set to be a big year for BABYMONSTER and YG Entertainment. Stay tuned for more updates on this story.

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BLACKPINK Set for 2025 Comeback and World Tour

Get ready for BLACKPINK in your area! YG Entertainment has just confirmed that the girl group is gearing up for a comeback and world tour starting in 2025!

YG Entertainment Confirms BLACKPINK’s 2025 Comeback and World Tour

The news comes YG Entertainment founder Yang Hyun Suk who released a special announcement video detailing the company’s major plans for 2025. In the video, Yang confirmed that there are several big plans for BLACKPINK whose members are currently focusing on solo ventures.

“There will be a highly anticipated comeback from BLACKPINK. It will also be the year BLACKPINK starts their world tour,” Yang said.

This is truly promising news considering that it has already been two years since BLACKPINK released an album. Their second studio album ‘PINK VENOM’ was released back in 2022 and the girl group has also just wrapped up the ‘BORN PINK World Tour’ that supported their release. Needless to say, BLINKS are also eager to hear new music from Jisoo, Jennie, Rosé, and Lisa in the upcoming year.

A Busy 2025 for Jisoo, Jennie, Rosé, and Lisa

It looks like BLACKPINK will be truly busy in the second half of the year. In addition to preparing for their comeback and world tour, the girl group is also getting ready for a special fan sign event to celebrate their 8th debut anniversary.

Adding to the anniversary festivities, BLACKPINK will release a concert film titled “BLACKPINK WORLD TOUR [BORN PINK] IN CINEMAS” on August 31. The film, which captures electrifying live performances from their successful “BORN PINK” world tour, will also be screened in over 110 countries, marking it as the most widely screened concert film by a girl group to date.

As BLACKPINK marks this significant milestone, fans can also look forward to more memorable moments and celebrations with their beloved idols in the upcoming year.

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