Four members of Apink will not be renewing their contracts with their entertainment agency, IST Entertainment, as announced by the latter on the official social media account last April 28. Members Chorong, Bomi, Namjoo, and Hayoung decided to part ways with the agency but IST Entertainment clarified that Apink will remain as a group.

Only Eunji renewed her contract with the agency while the rest signed with Choi Creative Lab.

“Thank you to all of the fans who cherish and support Apink. We would like to inform you of our official position regarding Apink’s future activities.

“After careful consideration and discussion with the members ahead of the expiration of the Apink members’ exclusive contracts, Chorong, Bomi, Namjoo, and Hayoung concluded their beautiful 12-year journey with us in late April,” the statement continued.

IST Entertainment hinted in their statement that Eunji will be releasing a solo album in the future. They asked the fans of the South Korean girl group to continue their support for them as they wouldn’t be disbanding. 

“Eunji has recently renewed her contract and will continue her relationship with us. She plans to greet you with her next work as soon as possible as well as continuing her singing career. We will continue to support her so she can stand out in various fields,” IST Entertainment added.

The Apink members shared that they still have the desire to continue being in a group despite leaving their old agency. IST Entertainment assured fans they will be supportive towards the future projects of Apink. 

“We would like to express our sincere gratitude to all of the Apink members who have worked together for 12 years to establish themselves as one of K-Pop’s representative girl groups. We ask for your continued support and love for Apink, who are preparing for their new start,” the statement concluded. 

Meanwhile, Choi Creative Lab released their own statement right after IST Entertainment dropped theirs.

“As all members have a strong will and affection for Apink group activities, we promised to continue their team activities without disbanding the group. We will continue to cooperate with IST Entertainment in relation to Apink’s future activities,” Choi Creative Lab said. 

Apink recently celebrated their 12th anniversary last April 19, 2023. They have released several hit songs such as “Mr. Chu,” “I’m So Sick,” “Luv,” and “Nonono,” among others.