By Arlina Yang
The K-pop industry is notorious for the so-called “7-year curse,” a phenomenon where many groups face the inevitable crossroads of disbandment around seven years after their debut. Often tied to the expiration of their initial contracts, this curse has become a somber reality for several iconic groups.
As 2024 commences, so are contract renewal negotiations for K-pop groups. Fans are now anxiously wondering about the future of their favorite artists: Red Velvet, Dreamcatcher, Mamamoo, KARD, Weki Meki, and The Boyz.
1. Red Velvet
Since their debut in 2014, Red Velvet has showcased versatility in music and concepts. Crowned as one of the top three girl groups of 3rd generation K-pop, Red Velvet has five members: Irene, Seulgi, Wendy, Joy, and Yeri.
In August of 2023, only Seulgi of Red Velvet announced her contract renewal with SM Entertainment. That led many to speculate that their most recent album, Chill Kill, would be their last album as a collective group.
Yet fans are still holding out hope as Red Velvet’s top three 3rd generation girl group counterparts like Twice have already announced their contract renewal in 2022 summer and so has Blackpink. They signed in early December.
2. Mamamoo
Mamamoo, known for their powerhouse vocals and dynamic performances, reupped their first contract in 2021, but Wheein’s group contract was only meant to last till December of 2023 and Hwasa have since moved onto a new company under PSY in July of 2023.
While Solar and Moonbyul remain at RBW, their contract expires in June of 2024. As each member explores individual projects and the industry evolves, fans wonder if Mamamoo will continue as a unit or if they will venture into solo endeavors.
3. Weki Meki
Featuring previous members from IOI Yoo-jung and Do-yeon, Weki Meki emerged in 2017 with instant popularity following the end of the 2016 reality show Produce 101.
Their most recent release Siesta came in November of 2021. Weki Meki has not been active for more than two years. Due to the long periods of inactivity, many aren’t positive about the possibility of Weki Meki’s return as a group.
4. THE BOYZ
Since their most successful comeback this year in November, THE BOYZ have been giving performances in music shows like the Music Bank and hosting concerts in Seoul.
Despite facing potential disbandment in the upcoming months, fans have noted positive comments from all members (Sun Woo, Juyeon, Younghoon, Eric, Hyunjae, Q, Hur Hyun-jun, Sangyeon, Ju Hak Neyon, Kevin, New, and Jacob) when asked about the group’s future during concerts.
5. Golden Child
Military enlistment in Korea requires male citizens between the ages of 18 and 35 to perform compulsory military service for 18-21 months. Golden Child members are no exception to the rule. In fact, one member, Y, has already enlisted in the military.
The requirement for military enlistment complicates the contract renewal process for the Golden Child members as it can include delays for contract negotiations and decisions until all members complete their duty.
The seventh year since their respective debuts is an undeniable turning point for these K-pop groups. While the “7-year curse” looms overhead, each group’s journey is unique, shaped by individual aspirations, challenges, and the evolving landscape of the K-pop industry. As fans hold onto hope and anticipation, the fate of Red Velvet, Mamamoo, Weki Meki, The Boyz, and Golden Child remains uncertain.
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ONF, Golden Child, & A.C.E. will probably all renew. I see some members of The Boyz leaving but not all.
I think Stray kids could reach out globally, like really big. Also seventeen and enhypen. Itzy also could become more popular in 2024.