Akdong Musician Ends 12-Year Partnership with YG, Set to Pursue Music in New Environment

Akdong Musician has left YG Entertainment following the expiration of their 12-year exclusive contract. On the 21st, YG issued an official statement saying, “After much consideration, Akdong Musician decided to pursue their musical activities in a new environment,” adding that they sincerely support their future endeavors. Approximately six months ago, Yang Hyun-suk, YG’s chief producer, visited the home of Akdong Musician’s members Lee Chanhyuk and Lee Suhyun to have dinner together and engage in honest conversations. They revisited 12 years of memories since their first meeting at the ‘K-pop Star Season 2’ audition in 2012, during which Akdong Musician naturally shared their concerns. The siblings’ dilemma revolved around deciding whether to continue working with YG or pursue independent musical experiments. Yang Hyun-suk encouraged Akdong Musician to go independent, stating, “Trying music in a new environment away from YG will also be a valuable experience,” and expressing his intention to support them no matter what choice they make. With the company’s encouragement, Akdong Musician decided to pursue independence. After winning ‘K-pop Star Season 2’ in 2013, they chose YG and have since released numerous hit songs, starting with their first full-length album ‘200%’ and ‘Give Love’ in 2014. Over 12 years, they established themselves as the “duo trusted by fans” thanks to Lee Chanhyuk’s simple yet warm melodies written by him and Lee Suhyun’s clear vocals. On the 31st, Akdong Musician posted a message on social media saying, “Goodbye, YG (2013–2025). We are deeply grateful for your support.” Lee Suhyun expressed her thanks by saying, “We sincerely thank all the employees who have been with us for 12 years, as well as YG for always trusting and respecting us. The YG family was my pride, and I was truly happy because of them.” During their final farewell, Akdong Musician showed their affection by saying, “We will always be the YG family,” and personally delivered a handwritten letter to Yang Hyun-suk along with a deep bow to express their gratitude. YG stated, “Akdong Musician will always be family,” adding that they will actively support them if needed in the future. They also said, “It was a great joy for the company to witness Akdong Musician’s growth,” and expressed deep gratitude for the amazing music and emotions they have delivered over the years. YG concluded by asking for widespread interest and warm support for Akdong Musician as they embark on this new journey.