AKMU leaves YG Entertainment after 12 years to go independent

AKMU has left YG Entertainment after 12 years, choosing to continue their music career independently

AKMU is officially parting ways with YG Entertainment after more than a decade, marking the end of one of K-pop’s most successful and enduring artist–agency relationships.

YG announced on November 21 that the sibling duo, Lee Chan Hyuk and Lee Su Hyun, chose not to renew their contract and will move forward independently.

According to the agency, their decision came after a heartfelt dinner six months ago with YG executive producer Yang Hyun Suk, where they reflected on their 12-year journey and discussed the group’s future direction.

YG shared that AKMU had been torn between staying with the company that guided their career since winning K-Pop Star 2 and exploring new horizons.

Yang Hyun Suk reportedly encouraged them to take on new challenges outside the company, offering full support for their next chapter.

Debuting under YG in 2014 with hits like “200%” and “Give Love,” AKMU went on to become one of Korea’s most beloved sibling duos, consistently praised for their musicality and lyrical depth.

The agency expressed deep gratitude for their years together, noting that the members emphasized they would “forever be YG Family.”

Both sides ended the partnership on warm, appreciative terms, with YG promising to support AKMU whenever needed and asking fans to continue cheering the duo on as they begin their independent journey.