On the 21st, YG Entertainment announced that AKMU, who has been with the company for 12 years, will be going independent. The decision was significantly influenced by the advice of YG's Executive Producer, Yang Hyun-suk.
Yang visited the siblings' home, listened to their concerns, and recommended that they try working on music in a new environment that suits their personalities. In gratitude, Lee Chan-hyuk and Lee Su-hyun expressed their thanks to Yang with handwritten letters and a deep bow.
Below is the full statement from YG Entertainment.
This is YG Entertainment.
About six months ago, Executive Producer Yang Hyun-suk visited the home of AKMU members Lee Chan-hyuk and Lee Su-hyun for a dinner.
They shared a meal prepared by the members and reminisced about their journey since first meeting on the audition program 'K-Pop Star Season 2' in 2012, sharing joyful stories from the past 12 years. They also had an honest discussion about AKMU's current concerns.
AKMU's main concern was whether to continue with YG, with whom they have shared 12 years, or to go independent for new challenges.
Yang encouraged AKMU to consider stepping out of YG's embrace to experience music activities in a new environment, offering his support and sincere intentions.
Yang's encouragement and warm support, understanding AKMU's desire for new challenges, led them to decide to embark on a new path.
After winning 'K-Pop Star Season 2' in 2013, AKMU chose YG as their agency. They released their first full album in 2014, featuring hit tracks like '200%' and 'Give Love,' and have since become a beloved sibling duo with numerous hits over the past 12 years.
It was a great joy for us to witness the growth of this sibling duo, filled with pure musical passion. We extend our deep gratitude to AKMU for gifting the public with amazing music and emotions during our time together.
AKMU members expressed their commitment to being 'forever YG family' and promised to return whenever called. They also conveyed their heartfelt thanks to Yang with handwritten letters and a deep bow.
Just as AKMU's sincere feelings remain unchanged, YG also considers them family. We sincerely support their new challenges and will actively assist them whenever needed. We ask for your warm support and interest in AKMU as they stand at a new starting line.
Ryu Ye-ji, Ten Asia Reporter ryuperstar@tenasia.co.kr