On December 2, YG Entertainment’s founder, Yang Hyun Suk, announced the company’s ambitious vision for 2024 and 2025 during a YouTube session, providing insights into the future of the K-pop label. The announcement was highlighted by updates on TREASURE’s new releases, leadership changes within the boy band, and major events for established acts like BLACKPINK, WINNER, and the new girl group BABYMONSTER. By sharing these updates, YG aims to set a strategic roadmap that reinforces their commitment to innovation and growth in the global music scene.
TREASURE, a boy band known for its energetic hits, is poised for a significant stylistic transition as indicated by Yang’s announcement. The group’s upcoming digital single “LAST NIGHT,” scheduled for release on December 5, will introduce a more introspective sound leading into an EP in February 2025, followed by a full-length album in mid-2025. This artistic shift reflects a desire for the members to express themselves more authentically. Furthermore, a leadership transformation is on the horizon, with members Junkyu and Asahi taking over leadership roles from Choi Hyunsuk and Jihoon starting on January 1, 2025. This strategy of rotating leadership every few years suggests a dynamic approach to team management and creative growth.
YG Entertainment is also gearing up for a year packed with activity across its roster. Alongside TREASURE, the label will see its rising girl group BABYMONSTER, the folk-pop duo AKMU, and veteran group WINNER all ramping up their output. WINNER is set to embark on their first tour since 2022, while BLACKPINK plans to reunite for a world tour after their successful “Born Pink World Tour.” This comes at a time when the group’s members are pursuing individual music and acting projects, making the anticipated tour a significant event. Yang teased potential new group debuts, reflecting the company’s strong trainee development program and commitment to nurturing future talent.
Despite the exciting lineup, the announcement raised questions about the future activities of other notable YG acts, particularly 2NE1 and SECHSKIES. Yang’s omission of any updates regarding the 15th-anniversary reunion tour for 2NE1, which is anticipated to extend into 2025, left fans wondering if there are plans for new music. Member Park Bom’s interest in releasing an album underscores a lingering desire for continued engagement from this legendary group. Additionally, fans of Eun Jiwon from SECHSKIES are likely eager for any news regarding the long-standing boy band, emphasizing the breadth of expectations from YG’s diverse roster.
2025 marks a pivotal point for YG Entertainment, presenting numerous opportunities for creative exploration and financial growth. Notably, among the “Big Four” K-pop companies at the time, YG is distinguished for maintaining a positive stock performance, with an increase of 4.9% in 2023, whereas rivals like JYP, HYBE, and SM have experienced declines. This financial stability suggests a momentum in the market’s confidence in YG’s strategic direction as a potential dark horse in the fiercely competitive K-pop landscape. With a robust array of anticipated releases and tours, combined with a forward-thinking internal structure, YG is positioned to capitalize on its success.
In conclusion, the unfolding narratives from YG Entertainment, encapsulated in Yang Hyun Suk’s December announcement, paint a promising picture for both the agency and its artists. With TREASURE’s evolving sound and leadership transition, an exciting line-up of established artists set for a busy schedule, and the potential to introduce fresh talent, YG is harnessing significant creative energy. The year 2025 stands to be a landmark moment for the company as it reaffirms its influence on the global stage and continues to shape the future of K-pop in innovative ways.
