In a move that signals a major turning point in the history of the group, B1A4 has officially announced its departure from WM Entertainment after 14 years.
On December 23, 2025, the agency released a formal statement confirming that the members—CNU, Sandeul, and Gongchan—have decided not to renew their exclusive contracts following extensive discussions.
This announcement marks the end of a foundational partnership that began with the group’s debut in 2011.
Since 2018, B1A4 has been active as a trio, and while their time with WM is concluding, the news was delivered with a sense of mutual respect and long-standing gratitude from both sides.
The Agency’s Farewell and Future Support
WM Entertainment’s official statement was deeply personal, reflecting the decade-plus bond between the agency and the artists.
The company expressed its sincere thanks to the trio, describing them not just as representative artists of the agency, but as “dependable partners who have walked the same path for 14 long years.”
Despite the termination of the exclusive contract, WM Entertainment emphasized that they are committed to supporting B1A4’s transition to their next chapter.
Also, the agency revealed that RBW Japan (a subsidiary of WM’s parent company) would continue to provide support for the group’s overseas activities, ensuring a degree of continuity for their international fans.
A Legacy Built on “Trust and Synergy”
B1A4 has long been known in the K-pop industry as a “self-producing” idol group, with the members heavily involved in the creation of their music and visual concepts.
Their time at WM Entertainment saw the release of numerous hits such as “Lonely,” “Solo Day,” and “A Lie,” establishing them as a group with a distinct musical color characterized by nostalgic melodies and relatable lyrics.
The agency noted that the relationship with B1A4 was built on a “foundation of trust,” and they expressed a desire to maintain a cooperative working relationship in the future to create ongoing “synergy” even as the members move to a new professional home.
Navigating Individual and Group Activities
In recent years, the members of B1A4 have successfully balanced group promotions with individual career paths.
CNU and Sandeul have established themselves as powerhouse vocalists and musical theater stars, while Gongchan has built a solid filmography as an actor, recently starring in projects like the drama ‘Our Love Triangle.’
This multifaceted approach to their careers has allowed them to maintain relevance and a strong fan following even during periods of group hiatus or military service.
Their departure from WM Entertainment is seen by many industry analysts as a strategic move to gain more autonomy over their diverse solo and collaborative pursuits.
Fan Reactions and the “BANA” Community
The news of the group leaving their longtime home brought out strong emotions from their fandom, BANA.
While there is a sense of sadness at the conclusion of their journey with WM, the overwhelming sentiment has been one of support and anticipation.
B1A4 (Credit: YouTube)
Fans have taken to social media to thank WM Entertainment for nurturing the group since their rookie days and to wish CNU, Sandeul, and Gongchan success in their “new home.”
The promise of continued collaboration between the agency and the group has also provided a sense of relief to fans, who are eager to see B1A4 continue to release music as a group in the years to come.
Looking Forward to 2026
As B1A4 moves into 2026, the K-pop community is watching closely to see which agency the trio will sign with next.
Whether they join a new established company or follow the trend of starting an independent label, the members are poised to continue their legacy as one of the industry’s most respected veteran acts.
With their 15th anniversary approaching in 2026, the move is being framed as a “new challenge” that will allow them to “unleash their abilities to their hearts’ content.”
For B1A4, this isn’t just a goodbye to their old agency, but a bold step toward a more independent and creative future.
In a move that has ignited excitement across the global K-pop community, SHINee’s Onew has officially introduced the design for his very first solo light stick.
On December 22, 2025, at the stroke of midnight KST, the veteran artist released a charming animated teaser via his official social media channels, giving fans a sneak peek at the instrument that will soon illuminate his solo concerts.
This reveal marks a major milestone in Onew’s career as a soloist, symbolizing his distinct identity and his deepening connection with his dedicated fandom, JJINGGU.
The teaser immediately began trending on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram, with fans praising the unique aesthetic and the sentimental value of the announcement.
Animated Teaser and Design Aesthetics
The animated teaser provided more than just a glimpse of the product; it set a tone of playfulness and warmth that has come to define Onew’s solo discography.
While the full physical specifications were detailed in subsequent updates, the teaser highlighted a design that seamlessly blends modern sleekness with elements that reflect Onew’s personal brand.
The light stick features a transparent dome housing a central emblem that resonates with his recent “GRIFFIN Entertainment” era.
SHINee’s Onew (Credit: X)
This new design is a departure from the traditional SHINee group light stick (the “Shating Star”), allowing Onew to carve out a visual space that is uniquely his while still honoring the pearl aqua legacy of his group.
Release Timing and Availability
Following the initial midnight teaser, Onew informed fans that the official release and pre-order period for the light stick would commence on December 23, 2025, at 12 p.m. KST.
This rapid turnaround from teaser to release was a welcome surprise for fans who have been waiting for official solo merchandise since he joined his new agency earlier in the year.
The light stick is expected to be a central fixture at his upcoming solo performances and fan meetings in 2026, including potential stops on his rumored international tour.
Agencies have emphasized that the light stick has been designed with advanced syncing technology to provide an immersive experience during live shows.
Symbolism and Fan Connection
For many fans, the introduction of a solo light stick is more than just the release of a piece of merchandise; it is an affirmation of Onew’s longevity and growth as an artist.
After over 15 years in the industry as the leader of SHINee, Onew’s transition into a fully realized solo act has been met with immense support.
The light stick serves as a physical manifestation of the “light” he brings to his fans, often referenced in his lyrics and fan letters.
By having their own dedicated light stick, Onew’s fans can now create a sea of color specific to his solo stages, further strengthening the intimate bond shared between the singer and his audience.
A Milestone in the “GRIFFIN” Era
This release is one of the most significant moves Onew has made under his new agency, GRIFFIN Entertainment.
Since departing SM Entertainment for his solo activities, Onew has been proactive in establishing a fresh creative direction.
From the release of his successful EP ‘FLOW’ to his various festival appearances, the “GRIFFIN era” has been characterized by a high degree of fan engagement and artistic autonomy.
The solo light stick is seen as the final piece of the puzzle in his rebranding, providing fans with a unifying symbol as they support his future endeavors in music and television.
Looking Ahead to 2026
As 2025 draws to a close, the revealing of the solo light stick sets the stage for a blockbuster 2026 for Onew. With the new light stick in hand, fans are anticipating a major solo concert tour that will span across Asia and beyond.
The artist has hinted at new music currently in production, promising a diverse range of sounds that will continue to explore his unique vocal color.
Whether he is performing heart-wrenching ballads or upbeat pop tracks, his “JJINGGUs” will now be equipped to cheer him on with a light that is exclusively his.
