The contract renewal between BLACKPINK and YG Entertainment continues to be a highly discussed topic among netizens.

On November 14th, YG released their third-quarter performance report for 2023. While BLACKPINK is still listed as an artist under YG, their status is marked as "contract renewal in discussion." As there have been no official statements from YG regarding the renewal, various rumors about BLACKPINK's future are circulating.

After completing their "BORN PINK" world tour with a two-day encore concert in Seoul, BLACKPINK has not shown any signs of a comeback. Despite hints of her departure from YG, Jennie released "You & Me" as a gift for fans. Jisoo is expected to focus on acting, while Rosé continues with her individual schedules.

Among the members, Lisa has been at the center of controversy as she faced an activity ban in China after performing a three-day nude show in Paris. In the midst of this situation, YG has started to assert their ownership of the name BLACKPINK.

They have released various paid content and merchandise under the group's name, including a VR concert, collaboration with Takashi Murakami, photocard sets, paid content on Weverse, and a limited theme in Superstar YG.

While fans remain concerned about the group's uncertain future, YG continues to release entertainment content, such as Rosé's Season's Greetings featuring her pet dog Hank. The majority of netizens believe that YG would not let go of BLACKPINK, considering the group's significant profitability for the company. BLACKPINK's activities have a significant impact on YG stocks, and the company also leverages the group's name by releasing merchandise.

However, there are still many people who find rumors of the members, particularly Lisa, leaving YG to be convincing.

Source(1)

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]