K-Pop Idols Celebrate Long-Term Partnerships with Agencies: A Win-Win for Both Sides

In the world of K-pop, it's becoming increasingly common for idols to remain with the same agency for over two decades. Notable examples include TWICE's Jihyo, who recently celebrated her 20th anniversary with JYP Entertainment, and BoA, who has taken on a director role at SM Entertainment. These long-term commitments are drawing attention.

TWICE's Jihyo marked her 20th anniversary with JYP Entertainment. She joined the company in 2005 and debuted as the leader of TWICE in 2015 through the audition program 'Sixteen.' To commemorate this milestone, TWICE's official YouTube channel released special content under the theme '20th Idol.' Fellow idols such as Nayeon, Jeongyeon, DAY6's Sungjin, SEVENTEEN's Seungkwan and Mingyu, and former I.O.I members Kim Sejeong and Lim Nayoung extended their congratulations.

2PM's Wooyoung also continues his 20-year journey with JYP. In a recent magazine interview, he expressed unwavering trust in the company, stating, "I've never considered another option. My career has always been with JYP, and just as the company has trusted me, I trust them." This statement highlights the strong bond between the artist and the agency.

SM Entertainment also boasts artists with long-standing partnerships. BoA, who will celebrate her 25th debut anniversary in August, has remained with SM and was appointed as a non-executive director in 2014. Recently, she took on the role of executive producer for NCT's Wish, enhancing the album's quality. Super Junior, celebrating their 20th anniversary, released their 12th studio album on the 8th, with members Leeteuk, Heechul, Yesung, Shindong, Siwon, and Ryeowook still under SM's management.

At HYBE, Lee Hyun, known as 'Big Hit's first artist,' stands out. He has been with the company since his first contract in 2007, marking 18 years of partnership.

In the K-pop industry, where contract renewals often garner significant attention, these long-term partnerships signify more than just agreements. For agencies, these artists become prime examples of their talent development systems, providing a foundation of trust for attracting new trainees and artists.

Agencies are seen as adept at artist care, while artists are viewed as loyal figures, building positive images for both parties. Long-term collaborations are a win-win choice for everyone involved.

Kim Ji-won, TenAsia Reporter one@tenasia.co.kr