YG Entertainment has made the significant decision to end its actor management operations, marking a major shift in the entertainment landscape. As a result, many of the agency’s actors have begun moving to new homes, while others remain uncertain about their future.
Actors Leaving YG Entertainment
The restructuring of YG Entertainment in January focused on narrowing the company’s operations to concentrate on its core music business. As part of this transition, the company ceased its actor management activities, prompting several of its actors to seek representation elsewhere. Many notable names have already made their exit, including high-profile stars like Cha Seung-won, Kim Hee-ae, and Seo Jung-yeon, who have all joined KeyEast, a rival agency.
The change in direction also affected actors with significant fan followings. Gal So-won, an actress under YG, confirmed her departure via social media, signaling the start of a wave of exits. Similarly, other actors such as Son Ho-jun and Yoo Seung-ho have opted to start new ventures, with Son Ho-jun launching his own agency, 333 Management.
New Contracts and Career Shifts
One of the more recent signings was Joo Woo-jae, who secured an exclusive contract with CAM, a new agency. This marks a fresh chapter for Joo, who gained recognition through roles in dramas like I’m Not A Girl Anymore, Love Alert, and Strong Girl Nam-soon. CAM’s announcement highlighted their excitement to work with Joo, noting his unique charm and strong public appeal. The move signals the continued reshaping of the South Korean entertainment industry as actors find new homes to pursue their careers more freely, away from YG’s now-defunct actor management sector.
With Joo Woo-jae’s departure, the number of actors remaining under YG’s banner continues to dwindle. The agency is down to approximately 10 actors, and the search for new representation remains an open question for others still under its management.
The Uncertain Future of Lee Sung-kyung and Lee Soo-hyuk
While several actors have already secured new homes, others, including Lee Sung-kyung and Lee Soo-hyuk, remain in limbo. Lee Sung-kyung, known for her roles in popular dramas and musicals, has yet to announce any plans to move to a new agency. Her career, which spans both television and stage productions, including her current involvement in the musical Aladdin, is a significant draw for any agency. However, despite her popularity, there is no confirmed word on where she will land next.
Similarly, Lee Soo-hyuk, who is currently starring in Good Day, also finds himself without agency representation after YG’s exit from actor management. Both Lee Sung-kyung and Lee Soo-hyuk have strong, dedicated fanbases, and their next moves are likely to be closely watched by the public and industry insiders. Given their established careers, it is anticipated that they will join agencies that can cater to their individual needs, such as those skilled in managing high-profile fan interactions and media appearances.
Challenges for Actors Without Agencies
For many actors, transitioning between agencies or being without representation for an extended period can be a stressful experience. The ongoing search for new agencies leaves some actors in a vulnerable position, as the lack of an agency can make it difficult to secure consistent work or maintain career momentum.
Han Seung-yeon, former member of the popular girl group KARA, spoke openly about her concerns following her departure from YG. Despite her worries, she remains confident that her work will continue to speak for itself. Han’s case highlights the resilience of K-pop idols and actors who have already navigated the challenges of changing agencies in the past. Her perspective reflects the broader sentiment among many departing YG stars—while uncertain, they remain hopeful about their future prospects.
Industry Shifts and Actor Representation
With the exit of so many stars from YG Entertainment, there has been a noticeable shift in the dynamics of actor representation in the South Korean entertainment industry. Former YG actors now have the opportunity to work with agencies that specialize in actor management, a space that has become increasingly competitive in recent years.
The timing of these transitions is critical. Many actors are looking to join agencies that not only provide the typical resources but also offer more personalized management, particularly as their fandoms grow. The demand for tailored fan interactions, frequent media engagements, and larger promotional strategies is growing, making it essential for agencies to stay ahead of trends and understand their clients’ unique needs.
What’s Next for YG’s Remaining Actors?
The remaining actors under YG’s management will likely see an increased amount of attention in the coming months. As YG exits the actor management field entirely, the focus shifts to finding the best new homes for stars like Lee Sung-kyung and Lee Soo-hyuk. With the rise of specialized agencies focusing solely on actors, these stars are expected to land with agencies that can offer more personalized care and direction for their careers.
Given that YG Entertainment once held a significant influence in managing both music and acting talent, this shift will no doubt alter how future stars are groomed and represented. It may even create new opportunities for emerging agencies that specialize in cultivating both K-pop idols and actors under the same roof.
