The group AKMU is leaving YG Entertainment after 12 years. YG Entertainment announced this fact in an official statement on the 21st. YG revealed that about six months ago, Yang Hyun-suk, the general producer, visited the homes of AKMU members Lee Chan-hyuk and Lee Su-hyun and shared dinner with them, during which they discussed their concerns.

YG Entertainment stated, "We shared food prepared by the members themselves and talked about the joyful stories from when we first met on the audition program 'K-pop Star Season 2' in 2012 until the past 12 years." They added, "AKMU's only concern was an honest dilemma about whether to continue with YG, with whom they have shared hardships and joys for the past 12 years, or to become independent for a new challenge."

General producer Yang encouraged the members by expressing that stepping out of YG's embrace and pursuing music activities in a new environment would be a valuable experience. YG said, "We extend our deep gratitude to AKMU," and added, "We sincerely support their new challenge and will actively support them whenever needed."

AKMU chose YG Entertainment as their agency after winning 'K-pop Star Season 2' in 2013. They released their first full-length album in 2014, leaving hit songs such as "200%" and "Give Love." Over the past 12 years, they have received much love and established themselves as a reputable sibling duo.

YG Entertainment said, "It was a great joy to watch the sibling duo, full of pure musical passion, grow step by step," and added, "We express our deep gratitude to AKMU for gifting the public with amazing music and emotion during the time we were together."

Until the end, AKMU conveyed the message, "We are forever YG family," and expressed their willingness to come running whenever called. They each delivered heartfelt handwritten letters to General Producer Yang and showed their gratitude with deep bows.

YG emphasized, "Just as AKMU's heartfelt feelings remain unchanged, YG also considers them family." They asked for much interest and support from fans as AKMU stands at a new starting line. AKMU's independence is interpreted as part of their musical growth and new challenge.