Five members of K-pop boy band Monsta X renew contracts with Starship Entertainment

K-pop

Published: 08 Aug. 2022, 16:20 Updated: 08 Aug. 2022, 18:03

Five members of K-pop boy band Monsta X renew contracts with Starship Entertainment

Monsta X [STARSHIP ENTERTAINMENT]

Starship Entertainment announced on Monday that it renewed contracts with five of the six members of boy band Monsta X, excluding I.M.

The agency issued a statement in both Korean and English on Monday.

“Lately, Monsta X members Shownu, Minhyuk, Kihyun, Hyungwon, and Joohoney have renewed their contract with Starship Entertainment,” the English statement reads.

While I.M did not renew his contract with Starship, the agency stipulated that the member will still be part of the boy band.

“As all six members share the same thoughts and affection towards the group and Monbebe [Monsta X’s fandom], I.M has agreed to continue and participate in the group's future plans.”

“Although discussions with I.M have undergone for a long period of time, we have mutually agreed to end the contract for the best of both parties,” the agency explained. “Our sincere appreciation goes out to I.M for the hard work and dedication he has shown over the years. We will support him wholeheartedly for both his participation as a member of Monsta X and an individual artist.”

The agency also hinted at a comeback by the boy band.

“We are working on various plans with the members to return the unconditional love we have received from Monbebe,” Starship said. “Please continue to send your unwavering love and support to the six members of Monsta X.”

Monsta X debuted in 2015 with the EP "Trespass" (2015). The band was formed through Starship and Mnet’s music survival program “No.Mercy” (2014-15). Monsta X is known for songs like “Who Do U Love?” (2019), “Love Killa” (2020) and “You Problem” (2021).

BY HALEY YANG [yang.hyunjoo@joongang.co.kr]