Why K-Pop Idols Are Leaving Big Agencies to Build Their Own Empires
G-Dragon, BLACKPINK’s Jennie and Lisa, and TWICE’s Jihyo are proving that leaving a major agency doesn't mean leaving your group behind. It could mean taking control of your future.
For years, signing with a major K-pop agency was the dream. But today, some of the industry's biggest stars are choosing a different path: building their own companies and taking a more active role in shaping their careers.
G-Dragon moved to Galaxy Corporation after leaving YG Entertainment. BLACKPINK's Jennie launched ODD ATELIER, while Lisa established LLOUD. Most recently, TWICE's Jihyo announced her departure from JYP Entertainment after 21 years and the establishment of her own agency, Emithaus, while continuing activities with TWICE.
So, why are established idols choosing independence, and what does this mean for K-pop's future?
1. G-Dragon: A New Chapter Beyond YG Entertainment
When G-Dragon parted ways with YG Entertainment in December 2023, it marked the end of a relationship that began with BIGBANG's debut in 2006. He subsequently signed with Galaxy Corporation, opening a new chapter in his career.
As an artist known for his influence across music, fashion, and performance, G-Dragon has built a distinctive creative identity. Moving to a new company offered a different platform for his future projects.
His move also highlights an important distinction: leaving a longtime agency doesn't always mean starting your own label. Sometimes, it means finding a new professional home that better suits your next chapter.
2. Jennie: Building Her Own Creative World
Jennie announced ODD ATELIER, also known as OA, in December 2023 for her solo activities.
Rather than choosing between her solo career and BLACKPINK, she established a separate company for her individual ambitions while retaining YG Entertainment's involvement in BLACKPINK's group activities.
With music, fashion, and brand partnerships all contributing to her public identity, having her own company creates a dedicated structure for developing those opportunities.
For BLINKs, the takeaway is clear: Jennie can build her own professional world while remaining part of BLACKPINK.
3. Lisa: LLOUD Opens More Possibilities
Lisa launched LLOUD in February 2024 to manage her solo career. She also partnered with RCA Records for her solo music in April 2024.
Her approach demonstrates that independence doesn't mean working entirely alone. Artists can establish their own management companies while partnering with major labels and other industry professionals.
For Lisa, LLOUD creates a platform for exploring music and other entertainment opportunities beyond her work with BLACKPINK.
It's another example of how solo independence and group loyalty can coexist.
4. Jihyo: Emithaus and a New Era Beyond JYP
Jihyo's announcement is especially significant after spending 21 years with JYP Entertainment.
On October 21, 2026, the TWICE leader announced her departure from the company and the establishment of her own agency, Emithaus.
But ONCEs can breathe easy: Jihyo plans to continue her activities with TWICE while pursuing her individual career through her new company.
After growing up in the trainee system and leading one of K-pop's biggest girl groups, Jihyo is opening a new chapter on her own terms.
Emithaus provides a dedicated base for her solo activities and future creative opportunities.
Her move reinforces the growing possibility of separating individual career management from group commitments.
5. Why Are Idols Choosing Independence?
There are several reasons established artists may want to create their own companies.
Creative freedom: A dedicated label can give artists more direct involvement in music, concepts, and future projects.
More control over solo schedules: Independent management can help coordinate releases, appearances, partnerships, and other individual opportunities.
Business ownership: Rather than building only a personal brand, artists can develop a company around their long-term ambitions.
Flexible partnerships: Artists can work with different managers, distributors, and record labels instead of relying on one company for every aspect of their careers.
Of course, independence also brings financial risks, administrative responsibilities, and the challenge of building a capable team. Having your own company doesn't automatically mean total creative control.
But for established stars with loyal fanbases and international recognition, the potential benefits can make the challenge worthwhile.
6. Are K-Pop's Big Agencies Losing Their Power?
Not necessarily.
Major companies like YG Entertainment and JYP Entertainment offer valuable resources, experienced teams, industry connections, and promotional infrastructure. Those advantages remain especially important for trainees and emerging artists.
However, established idols may have more options after years of building their names, fanbases, and commercial appeal.
Some may prefer to remain with established agencies, while others may want smaller teams or companies built around their individual goals.
The bigger shift is that a major agency is no longer the only possible long-term home for a successful idol.
7. What Does This Mean for Fans and Their Favorite Groups?
For fans, the most important question is whether their favorite idols can continue group activities while exploring new opportunities.
G-Dragon's move to Galaxy Corporation, Jennie's ODD ATELIER, Lisa's LLOUD, and Jihyo's Emithaus demonstrate different ways artists can restructure their careers.
Jennie and Lisa have pursued independent solo management while maintaining their BLACKPINK group connection with YG Entertainment. Jihyo plans to continue with TWICE despite leaving JYP.
These arrangements are different, and future activities depend on individual agreements and schedules. Independent companies don't guarantee more music or a particular comeback timeline.
Still, they create opportunities for artists to explore new sounds, collaborations, concepts, and projects while preserving important group relationships.
The Bottom Line: K-Pop's Next Era Could Be About Ownership
G-Dragon, Jennie, Lisa, and Jihyo are showing that an idol's career doesn't have to follow one path forever.
Their decisions reflect a growing interest in greater independence, personalized management, and building businesses that can support their creative ambitions for years to come.
Jihyo's move is particularly meaningful: after 21 years with JYP Entertainment, she's starting Emithaus without leaving TWICE behind.
Could K-pop be entering an era where its biggest stars aren't just building their own legacies, but the companies that will carry those legacies forward?
We want to hear from you, DojeonFam!
Which artist-founded company are you most excited about: G-Dragon's Galaxy Corporation journey, Jennie's ODD ATELIER, Lisa's LLOUD, or Jihyo's Emithaus? And which idol would you love to see launch their own label next?
Share your picks in the comments and join the conversation with Dojeon Media!
Comments