KG, formerly of the girl group VCha, has doubled down on her decision to leave, in a series of social media posts.
The idol responded to a statement released by JYP Entertainment, which addressed her claims of mistreatment and abuse by the company.
"Yesterday, I filed a lawsuit because I have decided to terminate my contract with JYP Entertainment and exit VCHA after experiencing incidents of abuse and mistreatment by certain staff members. I feel it was not a good environment for my mental health and I apologize if my leave disappoints any of you.
I am not in support of the working and living conditions that led a member to attempt suicide. Nor do I support an environment that encourages eating disorders and has caused members to self harm.
I made this decision back in May and am still waiting for release from my contract. I am worried for the girls who remain in VCHA, my friends, who I truly love and care for. I also realized if I remain at JYP Entertainment, I am not able to become the artist I aspire to be, as I really enjoy songwriting and production. I have accumulated a massive amount of company debt, while being paid very little for the intense work and extreme limitations on our personal lives. Although such incidents occurred, there were also beautiful moments.
I'd like to thank J.Y Park, company executives, and staff for believing in me and the exceptional training. I do not blame anyone for the treatment endured, but feel this is an issue that lies deep embedded in the K-Pop industry. I am grateful for the friendships I made and the incredible opportunity to perform for a global audience. Thank you V-lights for your love and support, and I ask you to continue to shine your support towards VCHA, regardless of my absence. I've grown a love for Korean culture and K-Pop music. In the future, I will continue making music in this genre, but not under these circumstances.
I hope that my leave can encourage the K-Pop system to make changes for the better, in hopes of protecting the idols and trainees who remain in these companies' hands."
— KG
KG announced on December 7 her plans to leave VCha, suing and accusingYPE of verbal abuse and subjecting members of the group to malnourishment.
In their response, the company alleges that KG had lied in her statement, accusing her of damaging the group's future and "false and exaggerated claims."
"We deeply regret KG's decision to file a lawsuit and make unilateral public statements containing false and exaggerated claims," JYPE said in a statement.
"This action has caused significant harm to the other members of VCHA and JYP USA who have been working diligently on their upcoming album and projects for early 2025."
KG has since addressed these claims, calling out JYPE for their "lack of accountability" and hinting towards substantiated evidence for her case.
"I am very disappointed in the company's lack of accountability. My legal team and I are fully prepared with photographic and physical evidence to prove my allegations are factual, not 'exaggerated' nor 'false'.
Thank you to the public for your unwavering support. Please treat both sides with kindness, as this is a difficult time for everyone.
I will continue to fight for better treatment of K-pop idols and trainees, in which I promise to speak nothing but the truth. I hope by coming forward, other trainees, idols, and group members can be encouraged to use their voice, in order to make positive changes in the K-pop industry."
-KG