artist
News & Update
The Emergence of Artist-Founded Agencies: K-Pop Idols Forge New Paths to Creative and Business Autonomy
The K-Pop industry, long characterized by its powerful, centralized entertainment conglomerates, is witnessing a significant paradigm shift as an increasing number of prominent idols are taking the reins of their careers by establishing their own independent agencies. This burgeoning trend reflects a deeper desire for creative control, financial autonomy, and the opportunity to build a ... Read more
May 25, 2026
Interviews & Editorials
KISU Embarks on a New Chapter as an Independent Solo Artist Following Departure from 24K and Military Discharge
The South Korean music industry is witnessing a significant transition as Choi Kisu, professionally known as KISU, formalizes his return to the spotlight as an independent solo artist. This move follows his official departure from the K-pop boy group 24K in 2019 and the successful completion of his mandatory military service in mid-2020. By choosing ... Read more
May 24, 2026
Culture
The Cultural and Legal Complexities of Kris Wu’s Departure from EXO and the Evolving Landscape of SM Entertainment’s Artist Relations
On May 15, 2014, the South Korean entertainment industry was jolted by the news that Kris Wu, the leader of EXO-M, had filed a lawsuit against his management agency, SM Entertainment, to terminate his exclusive contract. The filing, submitted to the Seoul Central District Court by the law firm Hankyul, alleged that the agency treated ... Read more
May 23, 2026
News & Update
Kim Chaewon of LE SSERAFIM Temporarily Halts Activities Due to Neck Injury, Agency Prioritizes Artist’s Recovery Amidst Busy Schedule
Seoul, South Korea – A significant announcement from SOURCE MUSIC and HYBE has confirmed that Kim Chaewon, the esteemed leader of the popular girl group LE SSERAFIM, will be taking a temporary hiatus from all group activities due to a recently diagnosed neck injury. The news, delivered via an official statement released on the global ... Read more
May 20, 2026
Fandom News
The Dual Nature of K-pop Fandom and the Rising Challenges of Artist Agency and Consumer Entitlement
The global ascent of K-pop has been fueled by a symbiotic relationship between artists and their dedicated fanbases. These fans are known for their extraordinary mobilization, organizing elaborate fan projects, donating significant sums to charitable causes in their idols’ names, and providing the financial backbone for the industry through the purchase of albums and concert ... Read more
May 19, 2026
Music Reviews
Jang Won Young to Host the 2026 Asia Artist Awards for a Sixth Consecutive Year
The highly anticipated 2026 Asia Artist Awards (AAA) has officially confirmed its master of ceremonies, with IVE’s Jang Won Young set to grace the stage for an unprecedented sixth consecutive year. The announcement, made by the awards ceremony organizers on May 19, solidifies Jang Won Young’s position as a consistent and celebrated presence at one ... Read more
May 19, 2026