The possibility of Lisa, a member of the girl group BLACKPINK, leaving YG Entertainment (YG) has increased.
Lisa, whose exclusive contract expires in August, has been discussing a contract renewal with YG but has failed to find a middle ground. YG is hoping for a 'dramatic resolution' before the term expires, but it is understood that the differences in positions between both sides are quite substantial.
The possibility of Lisa's contract renewal with YG not going through was first raised through Chinese sources. An anonymous Chinese agency hinted to a report on July 11th, "While coordinating Lisa's schedule with YG and determining her appearance, we recently conveyed that 'it is difficult to discuss schedules after August due to the uncertainty of Lisa's contract renewal.'"
In response to media's request for fact verification on July 12th, YG responded, "It's due to tour and personal schedules, and it's irrelevant to the contract renewal." They did not state a clear position on the contract renewal, but it can be interpreted as an acknowledgment that Lisa's schedule, which was recently being coordinated with the Chinese side, has been organized.
According to reports, regardless of negotiations with Lisa, YG is making relatively smooth progress in the contract renewal process with the other three members of BLACKPINK. An industry insider stated, "We are narrowing down the differences and are aiming to continue together after the contract renewal."
The future direction of BLACKPINK's activities is expected to be decided after the official announcement of their contract renewals. Whether Lisa will continue to be active as a member of BLACKPINK even if her contract renewal with YG ultimately fails will inevitably have a significant impact on the future direction of the group.
Meanwhile, BLACKPINK, which debuted on August 8, 2016, will have their contracts expire in August. During that time, they have become global stars, and their 'value' has skyrocketed tremendously. Currently, they are conducting a world tour attracting 1.5 million people. With the average ticket price being 120,000 won, the concert sales alone amount to 180 billion won. Including album sales, music revenue, commercial filming, and other activities, they generate astronomical added value. However, considering the symbolism obtained by maintaining BLACKPINK and the market capitalization as a listed company, industry insiders unanimously say that YG has made a bold bet.
