AKMU Leaves YG Entertainment After 12 Years: Sibling Duo Goes Independent
Chart-topping Korean sibling duo AKMU will part ways with YG Entertainment when their contract expires in December 2025, ending a partnership that began when they won K-Pop Star 2 in 2013.
The announcement came November 21 through an unusually warm statement from YG Entertainment, revealing that executive producer Yang Hyun Suk personally encouraged the siblings to pursue independence rather than renewing their contract.
Yang Hyun Suk Encourages New Chapter
Six months before the public announcement, Yang visited Lee Chan Hyuk and Lee Su Hyun at their home for dinner. The siblings prepared the meal themselves as they discussed their future and reflected on their 12-year journey together.
When the duo expressed uncertainty about whether to stay with YG or venture into independence, Yang offered unexpected advice. He suggested that experiencing music in a new environment outside YG could fuel their artistic growth, promising full support regardless of their decision.
This guidance proved decisive. Yang, who has worked with AKMU since they first auditioned in 2012, understood their tendency to constantly seek new creative challenges.
From Audition Show Winners to K-Pop Powerhouses
AKMU captured national attention when they won K-Pop Star Season 2 in April 2013. The competition aired from November 2012 through April 2013, with the siblings impressing judges through self-composed songs and natural chemistry.
After signing with YG in May 2013, they debuted April 7, 2014 with their album "Play." The release featured hit singles "200%" and "Give Love," establishing them as chart dominators who consistently topped Korean music charts with every release.
The duo officially changed their name from Akdong Musician to AKMU in 2019. Their discography includes major hits like "Last Goodbye," "How Can I Love the Heartbreak, You're the One I Love," "Nakka" featuring IU, "DINOSAUR," and "Love Lee."
Strong Loyalty Despite Departure
AKMU renewed their contract with YG in 2021 for five years after their initial seven-year contract expired. At that time, Lee Chan Hyuk stated they never experienced a single conflict with the company in seven years, while Lee Su Hyun said they never even considered leaving.
The departure remained amicable. The siblings told YG they would "forever be YG Family" and would return whenever needed. They delivered handwritten letters to Yang Hyun Suk and performed a traditional deep bow to express gratitude.
Building Their Own Label
Industry reports indicate AKMU plans to establish an independent label, potentially with their longtime YG manager who has overseen their activities for years. This move gives them complete creative control, though they've always maintained artistic freedom throughout their YG tenure.
YG Entertainment concluded their statement by affirming AKMU will always be considered family and pledging active support for their future endeavors. The company asked fans to continue supporting the duo as they begin this new independent chapter.
The siblings' departure marks a rare case in K-pop where an artist and agency part ways with genuine mutual respect and warmth, setting a positive example for how such transitions can unfold in the industry.
