Singer KG sues JYP Entertainment, accusing him of abuse and misconduct
Singer KG of music group VCHA has sued JYP Entertainment, accusing them of child labor and abuse.
KG (KG Crown), member of global girl group VCHA under JYP Entertainment, has filed a lawsuit to terminate her contract with the agency, citing mistreatment, abuse and severe working conditions. The announcement, made on December 8, has raised concerns in the music industry over the treatment of idols.
In the 77-page lawsuit, 17-year-old KG expressed her struggles within the system, highlighting a number of significant issues including the alleged suicide attempt of a member forced by unhealthy working conditions, which led to her developing an eating disorder . He alleged that the company dismissed the incident as food poisoning. The incident reportedly occurred in February 2024, a month after the group was promoting globally.
“Yesterday, I filed a lawsuit because I have decided to terminate my contract with JYP Entertainment and exit VCHA after experiencing incidents of mistreatment and abuse by some staff members. I feel this was not a good environment for my mental health, and I apologize if my leaving disappointed any of you,” KG shared.
KG stressed his deep concern for the well-being of his fellow members, citing troubling working conditions that had serious consequences, “I am not in support of the working and living conditions that led a member to commit suicide. Tried. Nor do I support an environment that promotes eating disorders and causes members to harm themselves.
He said he suffered abuse from some staff members and criticized the lack of concern shown by the agency when members raised complaints. KG mentioned that she was ridiculed by her staff in front of other members, which ultimately upset her.
KG expressed that the decision to leave VCHA and terminate her contract was not taken lightly, and she feels it is important to speak out on the challenging circumstances idols face in the industry.
Reflecting on her experiences, she said that her decision stemmed from the realization that she could not develop into the artist she wanted to be while living in an unhealthy environment. “I also realized that if I remained at JYP Entertainment, I wouldn’t be able to become the artist I want to be, because I really enjoy songwriting and producing. “I have accumulated a huge amount of company debt while being paid very little for the tough work and extreme limitations on our personal lives,” KG explained.
Despite the challenges, he acknowledged the positive moments he experienced during his time at VCHA, thanking JY Park and the authorities for believing in his talent and the exceptional training he received. “Although such incidents happened, there were also beautiful moments,” he commented.
KG expressed his love and care for his fellow members and expressed hope for their well-being. She reiterated her commitment to making music within the K-pop genre, even if under more favorable circumstances, saying, “I hope that my vacation can encourage the K-pop system to make changes for the better, which will benefit the remaining idols and The hope of protecting the trainees is in the hands of these companies.”
JYP Entertainment confirmed that they have not yet received an official lawsuit, but acknowledged “differences of opinion” and previous discussions with KG’s representatives. The company said that they intend to handle the matter through proper legal channels.
Speculation about the member being affected by a suicide attempt points towards Kylie, who has been on hiatus since March 2024.
Ever since it was announced, KG has been receiving a lot of support from fans globally. Hashtags like We love you KG, Always with KG are going viral.
For those who don’t know, VCHA is an American girl group based in Los Angeles, formed by JYP Entertainment and Republic Records through the reality competition show A2K. What first started as a six-member group is now composed of five members: Lexi, Camila, Kendall, Savannah, and Kaylee. She debuted with her debut solo album, Girls of the Year, on January 26, 2024.
Please note: JYP Entertainment is home to many popular K-pop groups, including Stray Kids, TWICE, 2 PM, Day6, ITZY, and others.
