On September 9, Route59, the production company behind the WSWF concert, released a statement: “We worked for months to finalize Ojo Gang’s concert appearance. However, communication with the crew’s manager was not smooth, and this caused repeated delays in scheduling and contract progress.”
They further revealed, “During negotiations, the manager demanded additional undisclosed conditions that were not shared with the members. The manager also strongly requested that the contracts omit details about appearance fees between the production team and the members. This could have left the dancers unaware of their rightful fees, which we could not accept as it was unfair and non-transparent.”
Despite this, the organizers stressed they still sought to bring Ibuki and Ojo Gang to the stage: “We directly coordinated with the crew members and reached a tentative agreement on August 26 for all members to participate. At that time, Ibuki also expressed willingness to perform, on the condition that issues with the manager remain private and that an apology be made to the members.”
The company added that Ibuki eventually refused to use the flights arranged by the organizers and later notified them of her decision not to perform. The production company concluded: “We earnestly ask fans to continue supporting Ojo Gang. Your love and encouragement are the greatest driving force for the crew to stand on stage, regardless of Ibuki’s absence.”
Earlier, on September 6 and 7, the WSWF nationwide tour kicked off with concerts at Jamsil Arena in Seoul. Ibuki did not appear, later apologizing in a personal statement: “I’m truly sorry I couldn’t participate in the Seoul concerts, which I had wanted to join. I sincerely apologize for failing to keep the promise we made to meet again after our victory. The concert organizers demanded a contract in a situation where I had no right to speak as an artist. Because of this, I’ve hired a Korean lawyer to discuss the future of the concerts. Furthermore, the organizers unilaterally announced that I would not be attending the Busan concert without any formal discussion with me, which is why I had to release this statement.”
Sources: nate
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