AKMU Becomes Independent, Leaves YG Entertainment After 12 Years

JAKARTA - The group duo AKMU ended their exclusive contract with YG Entertainment. After 12 years, they chose to leave the agency that raised their second name.

Friday, November 21, YG Entertainment announced that AKMU consisting of Lee Chan Hyuk and Lee Su Hyun ended their contract. They have been in discussions for a long time, six months to be precise before deciding this.

"Six months ago, our executive producer Yang Hyun Suk visited the homes of AKMU members Lee Chan Hyuk and Lee Su Hyun for dinner," YG Entertainment said.

While enjoying the prepared meals, they reminisced about the moment when they joined K-Pop Star Season 2 in 2012 followed by 12 years. They also revealed what they were thinking later, "he said.

They explained that the two had been in a dilemma with YG Entertainment who had been their agency for 12 years. In that statement, the producer supports their decision if they want to leave YG.

The duo released dozens of hits over 12 years and built their careers as loved duo. It's a matter of pride for us to see them develop as brothers little by little, filled with passion for music," the agency said.

"We thank AKMU for the music and the hearts they share. Until the end AKMU members express 'We will forever be YG's family' and they will always run if called," he continued.

The two brothers distributed their handwritten letters as a thank you to their producers for their support so far.

"We support their challenges and will help whenever needed. We ask fans to continue to support AKMU as they started this part," concluded the agency.

AKMU first joined YG Entertainment after competing in an event in 2012. They launched various hits which then made their names even more known.

Besides a career, Lee Chan Hyuk and Lee Su Hyun place themselves as soloists with their respective careers.