where success often hinges on the synergy between talent, charisma, and industry backing, the departure of an idol from their original label can be a seismic event. Despite parting ways with their labels, certain Kpop idols have chosen to remain steadfast in their dedication to their groups, continuing to contribute to their collective endeavours and forging ahead on their musical journeys. Let’s explore the 5 Kpop Idols Who Left Their Labels But Continued With Their Groups.
These days, it has become increasingly common for artists to part ways with their labels due to various issues but artists opt to continue their group activities, demonstrating a commitment to their collaborative projects and maintaining unity within their musical ensembles. This trend underscores the importance of artistic collaboration and the resilience of group dynamics in the face of industry challenges.
Kpop Idols Who Left Their Labels But Continued With Their Groups
SHINee Taemin
Today’s reports unveiled a significant development in the career of SHINee’s Taemin. After 16 years of collaboration, his exclusive contract with SM Entertainment, the agency that has nurtured him since his debut in 2008, is set to conclude by the end of this month. This impending transition marks a pivotal moment in Taemin’s journey, signalling his readiness to embark on a new chapter as a solo artist under a different management entity.
While bidding farewell to SM Entertainment, Taemin’s dedication to his craft remains unwavering. He is poised to explore fresh opportunities and avenues for artistic expression, symbolizing his evolution as a musician. Despite this change, the enduring bond between Taemin and SHINee remains steadfast, with expectations of continued collaboration with SM Entertainment for group activities, ensuring the group’s ongoing presence in the vibrant world of K-pop.
BLACKPINK Jennie
Jennie, along with the other members of BLACKPINK, has officially renewed her contract with YG Entertainment for group activities. However, she has also embarked on her solo journey by establishing her own label called ODDATELIER. Similarly, Lisa and Jisoo have started their own companies to pursue their solo careers. As for Rose, while she has not yet committed to solo endeavors under a specific label, her dedication to BLACKPINK remains unwavering, with assurances of continued collaboration with her bandmates. This strategic alignment between group and solo aspirations underscores the versatility and ambition of each member, setting the stage for an exciting chapter in BLACKPINK’s ongoing evolution.
2AM Seulong
2AM emerged onto the K-pop scene through the rigorous competition of the survival program Hot Blood Men, where they triumphed as winners and coalesced into the eleven-member ensemble, One Day, nurtured by JYP Entertainment. However, prior to their official debut, the group underwent a transformation, dividing into two distinct factions: 2AM and 2PM, each destined to chart its own musical trajectory.
Led by Jinwoon, Jokwon, Seulong, and Changmin, 2AM delved into the emotional depths of balladry, captivating audiences with their soul-stirring performances from 2008 to 2015 under JYP Entertainment’s tutelage. Despite members gradually departing the agency, including Seulong, Jinwoon, Changmin, and later Jo Kwon, the essence of 2AM persisted. Their enduring commitment bore fruit with the release of their poignant fourth mini-album, Ballad 21 F/W, in 2021, marking a triumphant return and solidifying their place in the hearts of fans worldwide.
2PM Taecyeon
2PM burst onto the K-pop scene with a bang in 2008, debuting under the prestigious label of JYP Entertainment. Initially comprising seven members, their early years were marked by infectious energy and captivating performances. However, the departure of Jay Park in 2009 prompted a significant shift for the group, reducing their lineup to six but not dampening their determination. Undeterred, they pressed forward, solidifying their position as one of the industry’s leading acts, captivating fans worldwide with their charisma and talent.
Despite facing the inevitable hiatus for mandatory military service in 2017, the spirit of 2PM endured. In 2018, the majority of the members reaffirmed their commitment to the group by renewing their contracts with JYP Entertainment. Notably, Taecyeon, while venturing into individual pursuits under 51K, remained steadfast in his dedication to 2PM, promising fans his continued involvement. Their seventh album, Must, released in 2021, stands as a testament to their enduring artistry.
MAMAMOO Hwasa
MAMAMOO made their debut under RBW (formerly known as WA Entertainment) back in 2014, marking the beginning of their remarkable journey in the K-pop industry. Despite the ever-evolving landscape of the music scene, the bond among the members has remained steadfast. However, in a notable development in 2023, Hwasa took a bold step forward by departing from RBW and signing with P Nations. Despite this change in agency, her commitment to MAMAMOO has remained unwavering, as she continues to be an integral part of the group’s dynamic, showcasing her talents and contributing to their ongoing success.
Let us know how you feel about artists leaving their company for solo activities in the comments below.

