There has been a trend of Korean idol groups differentiating between group and individual contracts
YG recently announced that they had signed new contracts with BLACKPINK as a full group to proceed with group activities. However, contracts for the members’ individual activities are still under discussion. Many people in the K-pop industry believe that BLACKPINK will continue their group promotions under YG but carry out solo activities under the management of other companies.
In the case of EXO, all the members renewed their group contract with SM Entertainment. In the meantime, D.O set up his own company with his manager for his individual schedules and SM also agreed to allow Baekhyun, Xiumin, and Chen to carry out solo activities under a separate company established by Baekhyun himself.
In fact, it is not something new for idol groups to separate their group activities and individual activities in different agencies. Previously, first-generation idol groups Shinhwa and g.o.d also did the same thing. Second-generation group INFINITE established Infinite Company to manage their group schedules but each member is doing their solo activities in other agencies. In addition, Lee Chang-sub signed with Fantagio for his individual activities while other BTOB members are also looking for new companies after they left CUBE.
Although the process and procedure of signing contracts are very complicated, the idols have a clear reason to sign with different companies. When continuing an exclusive contract for group activities with the existing agency, they can maintain the direction of their group activities and secure their solid fandom. This will benefit either their activities as a team or individual activities. Moreover, having a separate agency for personal activities can allow the idol to focus more on their strengths and avoid affecting the group schedules.
In this regard, a broadcasting official stated, “Recently, idol groups’ activities have expanded beyond music and idols are also active in dramas, movies, musicals, plays, and variety shows. Apart from group activities, idols are seeking more opportunities to showcase their individualities”, adding “Although it may be burdensome and challenging to sign two different contracts at the same time, this is the best way for each member to build their own careers while maintaining their group’s dynamic impact. In the future, such a dual exclusive contract system is expected to be more popular”.
Source: Daum
