WEEKLY has officially disbanded after five years, as all members have ended their exclusive contracts with IST Entertainment.
On February 26th, IST Entertainment released a statement saying, “After long discussions about the members’ future activities, we have mutually agreed to respect each other’s decisions and conclude their exclusive contracts.”
The agency expressed gratitude, adding, “We sincerely thank the members for their journey with us as our artists, and most of all, we are deeply grateful to the fans who have been part of their bright and warm path. Please continue to support the members as they move forward in different fields.”
WEEKLY debuted in 2020 and quickly gained recognition, winning six rookie awards and capturing fans’ hearts with their free-spirited and energetic charm. However, the sudden disbandment just shy of their fifth anniversary has left fans in shock.
Following the announcement, the members personally shared heartfelt messages to their fans, expressing their emotions.
Jimin took to Weverse and wrote, “As someone who loved WEEKLY as much as Daileee (the fandom) and loved Daileee as much as WEEKLY, I spent a long time in pain over this news. I didn’t want to keep you waiting anymore, and I wanted to make up for that wait with good news. But instead, we ended up hurting you, and I’m truly sorry.”
Jaehee also opened up, saying, “It feels strange and upsetting that such a loving team is now connected to the word ‘disbandment.’ I still can’t believe it. But I don’t think this is the end forever. For now, we will each walk our own paths, but in the future, I truly believe we will be able to reunite again.”
Soojin shared her feelings, “When I first heard the news, I was really shocked and had so many complicated thoughts. But more than anything, I kept thinking about how sorry I was to Daileee. I will do my best to repay you all by working hard in whatever I do next.”
Jihan also left a message, “I know Daileee must have been shocked to hear something they weren’t prepared for, and I hope this message doesn’t add to your sadness. I only ever wanted to bring happiness to Daileee, and I’m so sorry. No matter what, I will do my best so that we can meet again. And if I ever face difficult times, I will keep moving forward while cherishing the memories I have with Daileee.”
Lastly, Soeun reflected on their journey, saying, “Over the past five years, there were hard times, happy times, and even moments that brought me to tears. But I was able to get through everything and keep going because of Daileee, my members, and my family. We shared many springs, summers, autumns, and winters together, and I will never forget those precious times.”
As WEEKLY members go their separate ways, fans are left with bittersweet emotions, hoping to see them shine again in the future.
Source: [1]
