K-Netz Discuss if These Groups Approaching The “7-Year Curse” Will Disband or Renew Contracts
On May 17, a hot topic in an online Korean community site created discussion between fans, talking about the K-pop groups which are approaching a contract expiration months or a few years from now.
In the post, the blog writer listed the K-pop bands who will reach their 7th year. "7-Year Curse/Jinx" is known in the K-pop community, and many of the past K-pop groups that disbanded were done in their 7th year, which is the typical maximum year of their contract agreements with their respective agencies.
This opened the topic if the following K-pop groups will then dissolve or will renew their contracts.
1. Red Velvet
Red Velvet, a girl group that's promoting under SM Entertainment, debuted in 2014. Thus, in a year, they might renew or disband. Despite the announcement of Irene and Seulgi's debut as K-pop Duo, some fans and netizens are wary about possible disbandment due to lack of solo promotions.
However, Reveluvs, fandom of the group, strongly believe that the girls won't be disbanding as they are already a family with a tight bond.
Also, SM Entertainment rarely disbands its group. However, fans are pointing out how the agency has a poor treatment to its artists in terms of promotions and taking actions when it comes to their health and safety.
A fan commented, "I think they will renew? Wendy hasn't debuted as a solo artist yet, Seulgi and Irene will debut as a duo, Yeri is gearing up her own show, and Joy is promoting solo as well. So I don't think they will disband."
2. WINNER
Introduced in 2013 by YG Entertainment, the K-pop group is rumored to face its contract expiration in 2021 for the reason that their debut was delayed until 2014.
According to fans, some netizens are discussing whether they will disband or renew, considering the alleged unfair treatment of YG Entertainment to its artists.
3. MAMAMOO
MAMAMOO is now experiencing popularity after years of hard work and effort. However, some netizens can't eradicate the thought of disbandment, as every member is good at promoting as solo artists and can focus on their own music. Fans are also considering the fact that they can't disband now, as they have been continuously becoming renowned internationally.
Other K-pop idols are also promoting as a group member and, at the same time, as solo artists, which MAMAMOO can do.
4. GOT7
Debuting in January 2014, GOT7's possible contract expiration will be in January of 2021.
An Ahgase expressed her thoughts about this: "I don't have any idea about GOT7 plans, but I think they will definitely renew. Listening to the words of the members each day, they still have a passion for music, the reason why they need to continue."
Also, the team members are confident that it won't happen as, according to JB, life is more challenging without GOT7 on their side.
5. LOVELYZ
In 2021, Lovelyz is set to decide whether to leave their agency or renew their contract. Having eight members, some netizens and fans think that some members won't renew and go on their separate ways. One or two members will not affect much the group to continue. However, if several members will not renew, it will be difficult for Lovelyz to go on.
Nevertheless, the fandom of Lovelyz strongly believes that they will stick together and will definitely renew their contracts.
6. LABOUM
It's been a year since LABOUM made their comeback in 2019, that's why fans and netizens' attention were paid intently to them, whether they will disband or not.
