Big changes are ahead for Dal Shabet in the new year.
On Dec. 8, Cho Gaeun and Jiyul (Yang Jung Yoon), officially announced that after five years with the K-pop girl group, they decided to step back in order to pursue their own individual career ambitions.
Dal Shabet's management company, Happy Face Entertainment, released a statement on Dec. 8 clarifying the news. "The contract period for Jiyul and Gaeun has ended, and they have both decided to stop promoting with the group and go their own path instead."
Happy Face also elaborated on the reason for the members' departure. "We talked with Jiyul and Gaeun extensively, and they decided to make this decision to pursue their dreams and continue personal development."
"They are both pursuing their dreams in different ways," the agency continued. "In the future, Jiyul will continue following her dream of being an actress and Gaeun will enter the fashion industry, which she has been interested in for a long time."
The agency's ended their statement by supporting Jiyul and Gaeun. "Please cheer for them and encourage them on their new start."
In addition, both of the singers each wrote a heartfelt letter explaining the reasoning behind the decision to leave.
In her letter, Gaeun said she is thankful for the great memories with Dal Shabet and the love she received while promoting with them. She also mentioned that she is sorry for her departure, but plans to pursue her passion for fashion.
Jiyul also wrote about the memories she made as a member of the group, thanking everyone who helped her and revealing her future goal of becoming an actress.
Dal Shabet made their official debut in Japan last month with the release of the single album Hard 2 Love which also included the Japanese language version of their hit single "Darling."
