Yang Hyun Suk has personally confirmed that Katie Kim has left YG Entertainment for a new agency.

On May 25, the founder of YG Entertainment addressed fans’ concerns regarding artists who are currently under the agency through a post shared on YG Life.

One of the artists mentioned was Katie Kim, the winner of “K-pop Star 4” who was reported to have left the agency on May 24. Yang Hyun Suk clarified that she had recently moved agencies to one that was set up by a former YG executive, but that YG Entertainment will still be involved in the production and distribution of her upcoming solo album.

His full explanation reads as follows:

“Many people are curious about ‘K-pop Star 4’ winner Katie Kim’s debut.

“We consulted with Katie Kim several times after she entered the agency, and we learned that the music she wants to pursue is similar to the music that is prevalent stateside. As she immigrated to New Jersey, USA when she was 10 years old and grew up there until she was 21, Katie Kim is more accustomed to American culture and music than Korean culture.

“YG Entertainment decided to create the best environment possible that would allow Katie Kim to optimally produce the music she wants to. Over the past several years, Katie Kim has traveled to the US many times in order to participate in songwriting camps with foreign music producers, and has finished recording many tracks. We have also finished producing several music videos that were filmed in the US as well, in order for her to make a successful debut.

“However, today, I must share the unfortunate news that Katie Kim recently moved to a different, newly established agency.

“To reiterate, Katie Kim’s debut album was prepared at YG Entertainment, but she will be making her debut under a different agency.

“The reason she has moved to another agency ahead of her debut is the YG executive who had been in charge of all preparations for Katie Kim’s album from the very beginning decided to go independent early this year. This caused much confusion regarding the timeline of her debut as this executive was also wholly responsible for her future activities.

“I met and consulted with both Katie Kim and said executive separately about what would be the best plan of action for her moving forward, and the final decision was left up to Katie Kim.

“Katie Kim ultimately decided to move to the brand-new agency established by the respective executive. YG Entertainment will continue to maintain a relationship with her as we will be in charge of distribution of Katie Kim’s music. We will be rooting for Katie Kim’s successful debut, and provide support.

“I believe that the new agency will soon release a more detailed announcement regarding Katie Kim’s debut album. I ask that you cheer her on and show her support.”

Yang Hyun Suk also addressed questions about BIGBANG, WINNER, iKON, and BLACKPINK.

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