CANTIKA.COM, Jakarta - The K-Pop industry is known for its robust agency system, with one of the most influential being SM Entertainment. The agency has produced numerous global idols from various generations, ranging from TVXQ to EXO.
However, like any other industry, the relationship between artists and agencies does not always last forever. Some idols eventually choose to terminate their exclusive contracts with SM and seek new paths, either by switching agencies or establishing their own independent labels.
This phenomenon has been increasingly evident in recent years. Many senior idols have opted for a more flexible career path to determine their future as idols independently.
A List of Legendary Idols Who Have Chosen to Leave SM Entertainment
Since the early generation of K-Pop, there have been several prominent names who decided to leave SM Entertainment. Some of them even became cases that altered the contract system in the Korean entertainment industry.
1. JYJ
The departure of the 3 members of TVXQ was one of the most iconic moments in K-Pop history. Kim Jaejoong, Kim Junsu, and Park Yoochun filed a lawsuit against SM in 2009 regarding the long-term contract system, which they deemed unfair.
This case is often referred to as one of the biggest legal disputes against SM, and it had a widespread impact on the industry. After leaving the agency, they continued their careers through the group JYJ and solo projects.
2. Jessica Jung
Jessica was known as one of the popular members of Girls' Generation. On September 30, 2014, she officially parted ways with the group and later left SM Entertainment.
Following this, Jessica built a career as a solo singer and a fashion entrepreneur with her own brand.
3. Tiffany Young, Choi Sooyoung, and Seohyun
These three Girls' Generation members chose not to renew their contracts with SM in 2017.
Nevertheless, they maintained their status as group members. This example demonstrates that former SM artists can still participate in group activities even after switching agencies.
4. Kyuhyun
The main vocalist of Super Junior left SM in 2023 after nearly two decades with the agency.
He then joined another agency for his solo activities, while the group's activities continued under SM.
5. Donghae and Eunhyuk
These two Super Junior members also chose a different path by establishing their own agency.
The decision to create an independent label allowed them to have greater control over their music projects and career management.
6. Kris Wu, LuHan, Tao
These three idols are known as former EXO members who left SM Entertainment in different periods between 2014 and 2015.
They filed lawsuits against the agency regarding work contracts and promotional activities that they deemed unequal. After leaving, the three continued their careers in the Chinese entertainment industry and built a large fan base independently.
7. Several EXO Members
Following Kris, LuHan, and Tao, one by one, members of EXO began to leave SM Entertainment after their exclusive contracts expired. It started with Lay Zhang, who terminated his contract with SM in 2022. He then focused on a solo career in China and internationally, as well as developing his activities as a producer and owner of his own agency.
In addition, D.O left SM Entertainment after his contract expired in 2023 and then joined Blitzway Entertainment for his solo activities, especially in acting and music.
However, he continued to participate in EXO's activities as a group member. On the other hand, Baekhyun made a significant move by establishing his own company called INB100.
Baekhyun manages his solo activities through the company, together with Chen and Xiumin who later joined his agency for solo activities. The three of them were previously involved in legal disputes regarding their exclusive contracts with SM, before eventually reaching an agreement with the agency.
Latest Updates 2025-2026: Idols Who Are Now Walking an Independent Path
In recent years, the trend of idols leaving major agencies has been on the rise. Even some names that have long been synonymous with SM have decided to start a new chapter.
1. BoA
The legendary soloist dubbed as the "Star of Asia" ended her contract with SM after 25 years of collaboration. The decision was announced at the beginning of 2026 after the contract expired at the end of 2025.
BoA is said to focus on new projects and even open up possibilities to manage her career through an independent label.
2. Wendy
In April 2025, SM Entertainment announced that Wendy's exclusive contract had ended and she did not renew it. Nevertheless, SM confirmed that Wendy would continue to participate in Red Velvet's activities.
As a result, Wendy's solo activities are now managed by ASND, an agency that also oversees fromis_9, while group activities can still be carried out through coordination between the agencies.
3. Yeri
Alongside Wendy, Yeri also chose to end her contract with SM Entertainment in 2025 and eventually joined Blitzway Entertainment. Like Wendy, she remains a member of Red Velvet and can participate in group projects.
This move follows a new trend in the K-Pop industry, where idols choose to switch agencies or pursue an independent path without leaving their groups.
4. Mark Lee
On April 8, 2026, Mark officially terminated his exclusive contract with SM after about a decade with the agency. He also announced his departure from NCT units that have been instrumental in building his name.
This decision marks a significant step for the multifaceted idol in determining his future as an idol independently.
5. Ten
This NCT and WayV member also ended his contract with SM on April 8, 2026. Nevertheless, he can still participate in group activities if the schedule permits.
This move sets an example of a new model in the K-Pop industry that allows idols to leave their agency while maintaining a professional relationship with their group.
New Trend: Idols Determining the Future of Their Careers
Changes in the K-Pop industry have led more idols to consider career options after the expiration of their contracts. Many choose to switch agencies, while others establish independent labels to have greater control over their work and businesses.
This phenomenon also indicates that former members of EXO, TVXQ, and Super Junior now have more opportunities to develop their careers outside the traditional agency system.
However, many idols still maintain a good relationship with SM Entertainment and are even involved in group activities. This proves that leaving the agency does not always mean completely severing ties.
In the end, every K-Pop idol has a different journey in determining the future of their idol career, whether staying with major agencies or exploring new paths independently.
Carolyn Nathasa Dharmadhi | KPROFILES | THE KOREA HERALD | KOREABOO | KPOP WIKI
Read: Mark Departs SM Entertainment and NCT
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