GOT7 is splitting up, will leave JYP Entertainment amid controversy
GOT7 Flight Log: Turbulence performance in Malaysia on 4 Dec, 2016. (Photo: IME Group)
All seven members of K-pop group GOT7 have decided not to re-sign with JYP Entertainment and will be going their separate ways when their contract terminates on 19 January.
The group first debuted in 2014 with their first EP Got It? and had been steadily gaining popularity in their seven years as a team.
Netizens have expressed shock and support for the split. GOT7 fanbase Ahgases are upset at the treatment that the boys received from the company, saying that the boys made their first comeback in seven months and JYP made little effort to promote the group.
The group were also not given a comeback showcase for press either, which is customary for promoting groups.
All these factors could have accounted for the boys wanting to leave the company.
According to Allkpop, an insider said, "The GOT7 members are all very close. They wanted to stay together, but they split on which label to stay with. After a lot of talking, they decided to go their separate ways."
When delivering a statement regarding the split, JYP chose not to address the accusations of treatment levelled at the company specifically.
"JYP held in-depth discussions with members of GOT7 ahead of their exclusive contract termination on Jan. 19. As a result, the two sides agreed not to proceed with a contract renewal, hoping for a new future."
The statement continued: "GOT7 has performed exceptionally as a global idol group that represents K-pop since their debut on Jan. 16, 2014. We genuinely thank GOT7 for being part of the growth of K-pop and JYP, as well as all fans who have been a source of motivation to GOT7’s activities with their endless support since their debut. Our official relationship ends here, but JYP will sincerely cheer on the new future that the GOT7 members will advance into."
According to reports, Jinyoung will be signing with BH Entertainment. Yugyeom is rumoured to be signing with AOMG, Youngjae is rumoured to be signing with Sublime Artist, Jackson will be continuing with his Team Wang, and Mark will be returning to America where he'll be preparing his own YouTube channel.
JB, considered the leader of the group, is reportedly still reviewing offers from various agencies.
BamBam is reportedly finalising a contract with Makeus Entertainment.
