Singer and actor Lee Junho and JYP Entertainment have demonstrated unwavering loyalty to each other, culminating in a graceful farewell as their 17-year partnership comes to an end.
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According to OSEN’s exclusive report on March 20, Lee Junho had already agreed not to renew his contract with JYP Entertainment. However, he refrained from actively seeking a new agency, choosing instead to approach the transition with caution and respect.
Earlier that morning, JYP Entertainment officially announced, “We would like to inform you that our exclusive contract with Lee Junho will conclude on April 15. After extensive discussions, both the company and the artist have decided not to proceed with a contract renewal.”
JYP expressed their gratitude, stating, “Since his debut with 2PM in 2008, Lee Junho has consistently excelled as both a singer and actor. Based on our mutual trust, we have renewed contracts multiple times, sharing in the artist’s shining moments. We are deeply thankful to Lee Junho for accompanying us on our 17-year journey of growth. We are especially grateful to the fans who have showered him with love and support in response to his tireless efforts.”
Lee Junho reciprocated the sentiment, saying, “I sincerely thank you for your unwavering support over the past 17 years. I will cherish the relationships built and the encouragement received during this long journey as I move forward.”
While the contract’s official end date is April 15, leaving about a month remaining, it’s unusual for such announcements to be made this early, especially without rumors of a new agency. Typically, actors announce such changes after their contracts have ended, and it’s rare to formalize a separation so far in advance without speculation about a new affiliation.
OSEN’s investigation revealed that despite deciding not to renew with JYP, Lee Junho has refrained from actively meeting with other agencies or searching for a new representation. This approach stands out in an industry where artists often begin exploring new opportunities or establishing their own agencies once contract renewal negotiations fall through.
The Korean Entertainment Management Association allows artists to discuss potential contracts with other agencies up to three months before their current contract expires. Given Lee Junho’s status as a hallyu star with significant success both as a singer and actor, he has likely received numerous offers. However, sources suggest he chose to wait patiently out of loyalty to JYP, his home for the past 17 years.
JYP responded to Junho’s considerate approach in kind. With increasing inquiries about Junho’s contract status, the company decided to announce the contract termination early, allowing him the freedom to explore new opportunities without pressure.
JYP emphasized their continued support, stating, “While our official contract is ending, JYP Entertainment will always cheer for Lee Junho’s new challenges and brilliant future. We plan to continue managing his activities in Japan and will actively support any future collaborations.”
Lee Junho debuted as a member of 2PM in 2008, gaining global popularity through various hit songs. He ventured into acting with the 2013 film “Cold Eyes” and has since established himself as a leading actor through projects like “Twenty,” “Memories of the Sword,” “Chief Kim,” “Wok of Love,” “Confession,” “The Red Sleeve,” and “King the Land.”
This year, Junho is set to appear in the Netflix series “Cashero” and is currently filming the new tvN drama “Typhoon Company,” scheduled to air in the latter half of the year.
As Lee Junho and JYP Entertainment conclude their long-standing partnership, their mutual respect and consideration set a noteworthy example in the entertainment industry, demonstrating that even partings can be handled with grace and professionalism.