Though these K-pop artists originally debuted in established entertainment companies, they took the leap and opened up their own agencies!

1. BLACKPINK Jennie

In November 2023, Jennie secretly set up her own entertainment agency, ODD ATELIER (OA). This news was kept a secret from BLINKs for month.

In December 2023, it was announced that all four BLACKPINK members opted to not renew their contracts with YG Entertainment for solo activities. Soon after, Jennie became the first member of the group to announce her label.

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Jennie is still signed to YG Entertainment for her BLACKPINK activities.

2. EXO Baekhyun

In January 2024, Baekhyun established his own lanel INB100. He founded the company, and his fellow members Xiumin and Chen signed with him for their solo activities.

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Baekhyun, Xiumin, and Chen are still signed with SM Entertainment for their activities with EXO.

3. BLACKPINK Jisoo

After it was announced that Jisoo did not renew her contract with YG Entertainment for her solo activities, rumors started swirling that she was preparing to establish her own label under her older brother's corporation.

In February 2024, these rumors were prove true! She established her own agency, Blissoo!

Jisoo is still under YG Entertainment for her work with BLACKPINK.

4. BLACKPINK Lisa

Lisa was the second member of BLACKPINK to announce her own entertainment label. In February 2024, Lisa announced the launch of her agency, LLOUD. She signed with RCA Records for the release of future solo music.

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Lisa is still signed under YG Entertainment for future BLACKPINK activities.

5. PENTAGON Kino

In October 2023, it was announced that Kino, alongside Yeo One, Yan An, Yuto, and Wooseok, left CUBE Entertainment following the expiration of their contract.

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Soon after, Kino announced the launch of his own one-man agency, NAKED Company.

6. Rocky (former ASTRO)

In February 2023, Fantagio announced that Rocky opted not to renew his contract with the company, and that he left ASTRO. In October of that year, it was announced Rocky established the agency One Fine Day in August.

7. EXO Lay

In October 2020, it was announced that Lay established his own entertainment agency, Chromosome Entertainment Group. Following the announcement of his agency, several notable individuals shared their congratulations, including SM Entertainment founder Lee Soo Man.

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Soloist LE'V (Wang Zi Hao) debuted under Lay's agency.

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Written by Alexa Lopez