K-Pop singer Lee Hi (real name Lee Ha-yi) is leaving YG Entertainment after almost 8 years, the label said thru an official statement released today, December 31.
According to YG Entertainment, the singer didn’t renew her exclusive contract with the label, and after lengthy discussion between two parties, they’ve decided to support each other’s decision and future.
Lee Hi began her career with YG after she won as a runner-up in SBS’s K-Pop Star Season 1 in 2011, debuting with the label in 2012, and was touted to be the next generation female vocalist representative with her distinctive tone and singing ability.
Here’s YG Entertainment’s official statement (rough translation):
Hello. This is YG Entertainment.
After long and careful discussions with Lee Hi, whose contract is about to expire, we decided to support each other’s future.
After winning the runner-up in SBS ‘K-Pop Star Season 1’ in 2011, Lee Yi made an exclusive contract with YG Entertainment and debuted in 2012, and has grown to become the ‘next generation female vocalist representative’ with his distinctive tone and singing ability.
We would like to express our sincere gratitude to Lee Hi, who has built her own unique field as a YG artist for the past seven years, and will always support him with affection.
Thank you for your continued love and support.
YG also asked fans to continue supporting her on her new start and further activities. -HallyuLife.com
