Singer Chungha has ended her exclusive contract with her agency without finishing her regular album.

On the 29th, MNH Entertainment announced that "Chungha's exclusive contract with our company, which started when she debuted in 2016 and lasted for 7 years, will expire on April 29th, 2023."

In addition, it was announced that Chungha's 'Bare&Rare Pt.2' will not be released by MNH Entertainment. 'Bare&Rare' was Chungha's second regular project, which was scheduled to be released in two parts, Part 1 and Part 2.

Last year, Chungha released the first part of 'Bare&Rare' in July, and announced that the second part would be released soon.

At that time, it was also announced that Lachika, who had been collaborating with Chungha, would also be in charge of the performance for Part 2, creating high expectations among fans.

Despite the expectation that 'Bare&Rare Pt.2' would be released soon, the news of the release has not been announced for about 9 months.

In the end, Chungha decided not to renew her contract with MNH Entertainment. The release date for 'Bare&Rare Pt.2' has also not been announced yet.

Last August, Chungha expressed her dissatisfaction with the agency during a live broadcast. In response to fans' comments requesting a world tour, she said, "Why won't they let me do it? It's because of MNH."

She also jokingly said, "I want to leave the company. Please let me go," attracting attention.

Some fans pointed out that MNH Entertainment had been neglecting Chungha. After finishing her activities with I.O.I, Chungha returned to MNH Entertainment as a solo singer and became a "female solo artist."

Although Chungha led the way until the agency moved buildings, fans criticized the agency for not taking better care of her.

MNH Entertainment said, "We sincerely express our deep gratitude to Chungha, who has been with us for a long time," as they let go of Chungha, and expressed interest in her future endeavors.

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Lee Kyung Gyu's star-making influence goes beyond Kang Ho Dong, as Hong Jin Kyung shares how he helped her kickstart her career.

On the April 24 episode of KBS 2TV’s Problem Child in House, legendary comedian Lee Kyung Gyu appeared as a guest—and a touching story from the past was revealed.

Hong Jin Kyung surprised everyone when she said, “He’s the teacher for all of us. Personally, he’s the one who helped me debut.” She even pinned a carnation flower on his chest to show her gratitude.

Lee Kyung Gyu smiled and said, “I still remember when Hong Jin Kyung walked up the stairs onto the stage for the first time.”

Hong Jin Kyung then shared her journey to becoming a star. “I joined a supermodel contest, but only the top 3 winners were noticed in broadcasting. I got a special prize, so I had no chance to be on TV."

She continued, "At first, I was just a backup for a show. But somehow, I became a regular the next week. I never knew why."

She added, "I thought the PD gave me a shot. But then one day, I randomly met Kyung Gyu sunbae, and he told me it was actually him who recommended me.”

Kim Sook asked with a smile, “So Kyung Gyu sunbae said nice things about you to the PD?”

Lee Kyung Gyu playfully replied, “Don’t say it in such a childish way,” making everyone laugh.

He then explained more seriously, “The show was Scoop TV Entertainment, and I was pretty much the main MC. When Jin Kyung showed up, I saw her determination and passion."

He added, "While others didn’t seem serious, she really stood out. I told the PD, ‘She seems unique. Why not keep her on the show?’”

Kim Jong Kook chimed in, “So if the main MC said that, doesn’t that mean you basically got her in?”

That made Lee Kyung Gyu happy. He grinned and replied, “Exactly! You speak well. Be like him!”

He added, “After that, Jin Kyung’s career took off. She started doing shows with Lee Young Ja and just kept going.”

Fans are now calling Lee Kyung Gyu not only a top MC, but also a quiet star-maker behind the scenes!

Source: [1]