Is BLACKPINK Disbanding?

BLACKPINK, one of K-pop's leading groups, has yet to finalize their contract renewal with YG Entertainment.

South Korean outlets reported Thursday that members Jisoo, Jennie, and Lisa will sign contracts with other labels, while Rosé will renew her contract with YG.

South Korean outlet Sports Seoul said that the three members are in last-minute discussions with a ‘separate yet together’ strategy, where they will sign with other labels, but spend six months out of the year as part of BLACKPINK.

This comes after Lisa allegedly rejected two contract renewal offers from YG last week, with the size of the contract reportedly worth 50 billion South Korean won ($37.6 million).

The agency denied the reports and added that it is still in discussion with all four members. The quartet’s exclusive contract with YG expired in early August.

Meanwhile, the K-pop idols remained mum on the matter as they wrapped up the “Born Pink” world tour on September 17 in Seoul.

Jennie, however, hinted to fans that they will carry on as a group, saying “We will continue to be cool BLACKPINK." 

The tour marked the largest world tour by a K-pop girl group. YG claimed the tour attracted 2.11 million people around the world, spanning 66 performances in 34 cities.

Shares of the K-pop agency tumbled 13.28% following the news. The stock closed at hit its lowest level in almost five months and closed at 69,200 won ($51.68) per share, its lowest level since its May 11 close of 66,700 won.