AKMU Leave YG Entertainment After 12 Years: A New Beginning and Fan Reactions

AKMU leave YG after 12 years to begin an independent path.
They move forward with support from Yang Hyun Suk.
Fans respond with excitement and concern.

Sibling duo Lee Chan Hyuk and Lee Su Hyun, better known as AKMU, have officially ended their 12 year partnership with YG Entertainment. The decision was announced on November 21, 2025, following a visit from executive producer Yang Hyun Suk to their home six months earlier. During the nostalgic meeting, they reminisced about their first encounter on “K Pop Star Season 2” in 2012, reflected on the ups and downs of their decade with YG, and acknowledged that their only concern was whether to stay with the company or pursue new challenges. Yang Hyun Suk encouraged them to try something different and offered support from behind the scenes. That encouragement ultimately inspired the siblings to continue their careers independently, although they emphasized that they will always remain part of the YG family.

The farewell moment became even more emotional because AKMU released “ALIEN, DINOSAUR, 어떻게 이별까지 사랑하겠어, 널 사랑하는 거지” as their final live clip under Studio YG. The video surpassed 18,000 views and gained 1,804 likes within just 20 hours. The duo expressed gratitude toward Yang Hyun Suk through a handwritten letter, promising they would come whenever he called. YG returned the sentiment by offering full support and looking back fondly on their journey from their 2014 debut album featuring hits like “200%” and “Give Love” to later fan favorites such as “Dinosaur,” “Alien,” and “How Can I Love the Heartbreak, You’re the One I Love.”

Twelve Years with YG and a New Chapter Ahead

AKMU began their career as the winners of “K Pop Star Season 2” in 2013. They chose YG Entertainment as their creative home and released their first full album in 2014 with the title track “200%.” Their career continued to soar thanks to Lee Chan Hyuk’s songwriting talent, musical arrangements, and the duo’s signature harmonized vocals. Fans often said that YG became the home that raised them because the company provided Lee Chan Hyuk with creative freedom in songwriting and allowed Lee Su Hyun to showcase her vocal expression. Their success continued through songs such as “Give Love,” “How Can I Love the Heartbreak, You’re the One I Love,” “Fall,” “200%,” and “DINOSAUR.” When their first seven year contract ended in 2021, they renewed it for five more years because they believed YG had consistently supported them without friction.

However, over time, the duo began to consider new challenges. Media reports revealed that they would not be joining another agency but instead plan to establish their own company with their longtime manager. Industry insiders noted that the dinner discussion months ago centered on AKMU’s future, and Yang Hyun Suk encouraged them to explore their creativity outside YG. This step was seen as a chance for fresh air, especially after they successfully held their intimate three week theater concert “Akdongdeul” at Myeonghwa Live Hall. YG also promised to help whenever needed.

Their decision sparked wide discussion on social media. Many fans expressed support and hope. Some pointed out that YG has produced more independent labels than other agencies, while others praised AKMU’s bravery and called it an inspiring move. Some compared it to escaping an abusive relationship.

“Wishing them all the success in their new agency. Gold shines wherever it is placed.”

“Hopefully joining or creating their own agency will be the best path and make them shine even more.”

Others criticized YG for continually losing major groups and urged the company to improve.

“Pray for Baemon and Treasure. Everyone leaving YG. Blackpink contract expire soon. Winner too maybe.”

Another commenter said that YG needs to improve its management quality because too many artists have left. Still, some reminded everyone that AKMU have always walked their own path and that going independent simply shows their determination.

In terms of artistry, AKMU remain one of the most consistent sibling duos in the K Pop industry. Both Lee Chan Hyuk and Lee Su Hyun have strengthened their identities as solo artists beyond group activities and have even experimented with intimate small scale theater performances. Their departure from YG is not the end. It is the start of a new chapter. With warm support from YG and their sincere intention to collaborate whenever needed, AKMU are ready to continue independently. Their plan to start their own company may inspire other artists who want full control of their creative process. The live clip “ALIEN, DINOSAUR, 어떻게 이별까지 사랑하겠어, 널 사랑하는 거지” stands as their final gift under Studio YG, a sweet farewell before stepping into a new era.

After more than a decade together, this decision reflects AKMU’s commitment to keep evolving. As they wrote in their handwritten letter to Yang Hyun Suk, “We will forever be YG family.” A good family lets its children fly when they are ready. Now, the public eagerly waits to see how the creative duo will use their newfound freedom while hoping that YG and the Korean music industry learn from this defining moment.

Watch the “ALIEN, DINOSAUR” live clip here:

Source: Xports News, Newsen