Girls’ Generation member Yuri has decided to leave SM Entertainment after 19 years with the agency, becoming the fifth member of the K-pop group to depart the company while maintaining her group activities, according to an official statement released by SM Entertainment on July 31.
Yuri Departs SM Entertainment After Nearly Two Decades
According to SM Entertainment, the agency reached a mutual agreement with Kwon Yuri to conclude their 19-year professional relationship on August 31. The company stated that it was a precious time to be part of Yuri’s journey from her debut with Girls’ Generation in 2007 through her work across music, acting, variety shows, and MC roles.
Did you know? Girls’ Generation debuted in 2007 under SM Entertainment and went on to define an era of the global K-pop wave, before individual members began exploring different agency alignments.
Girls’ Generation Member Contract Status Breakdown
With this departure, Yuri becomes the fifth member of Girls’ Generation to leave SM Entertainment while committing to stay with the group for future music and promotional activities. The current landscape of the group’s agency affiliations shows a distinct split among the members.
According to agency disclosures, Taeyeon, Yoona, and Hyoyeon remain signed with SM Entertainment. Meanwhile, Sunny, Tiffany, Sooyoung, and Seohyun previously left the company for various other agencies, establishing a precedent of group continuity despite divergent management structures.
Future Group Activities Amid Agency Shifts
According to SM Entertainment’s announcement, Yuri’s exclusive contract with the firm has concluded, but her participation in Girls’ Generation activities will continue as before, mirroring the arrangements made by her fellow departing bandmates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did Yuri leave Girls’ Generation?
No. According to SM Entertainment, Yuri will continue to participate in Girls’ Generation activities despite ending her individual exclusive contract with the agency.
When does Yuri’s contract with SM Entertainment officially end?
According to SM Entertainment, the 19-year professional relationship concludes on August 31.
Which Girls’ Generation members are still with SM Entertainment?
According to official records, Taeyeon, Yoona, and Hyoyeon remain signed with SM Entertainment.
How many members have left SM Entertainment?
With Yuri’s departure, a total of five members—Sunny, Tiffany, Sooyoung, Seohyun, and Yuri—have left SM Entertainment.
Call to Action: What are your thoughts on the evolution of multi-agency K-pop groups like Girls’ Generation? Share your perspective in the comments below, and explore our related artist updates for more industry news.
Related reading