IU's agency, EDAM Entertainment, is facing backlash from fans who are upset over claims that the agency moved without telling the singer.

On October 21st, a notice about the agency's relocation was shared on IU's fan cafe. EDAM Entertainment announced, "Due to the company’s move, our address has changed. We’re providing updated information on how to send support."

They also mentioned that mail could not be received at the old address and gave out the new address for fan letters and gifts.

However, fans were frustrated to learn that IU was not aware of the address change. After their letters were returned, fans directly asked IU during her appearance on the official cafe on October 20th if the agency had moved without informing her. IU responded, "Did they do it without telling me? As far as I know, they didn't."

When Sports Kyunghyang reached out to EDAM Entertainment about whether they had informed IU, they said, "We are verifying the facts."

Currently, the only artists under EDAM Entertainment are IU and WOOSUNG. Fans are worried that if the agency can move without telling its two artists, it might also not communicate well about important matters like broadcast requests.

In fact, during the Netflix variety show New Singer Jo Jung Seok, Mun Sang Hoon, who runs the YouTube channel Badanus, mentioned that he sent many emails to EDAM. IU humorously responded, "If you're trying to book me… I’ll join!"

Dissatisfaction with EDAM Entertainment has been building for a while. Back in April, the agency mistakenly identified an IU fan as a scalper, which led to the fan being banned from attending a concert and permanently expelled from the fan club.

Following this incident, EDAM issued a statement saying, "If the affected fan felt discomfort, we sincerely apologize," and added, "We will strive to resolve this amicably as soon as possible."

However, fans continued to be upset with how the agency handled the situation, even organizing a protest with trucks. They criticized EDAM, stating, "An artist unrelated to the on-site operations was unfairly criticized for the negative effects of the illegal ticket reporting, while the agency hurriedly released a clarification statement, worsening the situation."

Meanwhile, IU signed an exclusive contract with EDAM Entertainment on January 6, 2020. The agency was founded by Baek Jong-han, who has worked with IU since her debut.

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]