Red Velvet's Yeri and Wendy Leaves SM Entertainment, Will Continue To Participate in Group Activities

Red Velvet's Wendy and Yeri have officially decided not to renew their contracts with SM Entertainment.

In an announcement on Friday, SM Entertainment said both K-pop powerhouses have decided not to renew their exclusive contracts for solo activities under the agency. That said, Wendy and Yeri will continue to participate in Red Velvet's group activities under the agency's support.

This announcement comes after Yeri sparked speculation about her future with SM Entertainment by sharing a heartfelt message with fans the day before. Through her subscription-based messaging platform, the singer revealed that news regarding her and SM Entertainment would be announced the following morning. She noted that the news might not be positive. She also expressed her heartfelt gratitude to her fans.

"Tomorrow morning, a piece of news concerning me and my agency will be released... "I just wanted to tell you guys first rather than have you see it in an article and be surprised, so I came to you first! So, what I mean to say is, my love for you will not change!" Yeri wrote.

The timing aligns with the staggered renewal schedules of Red Velvet members, as Yeri joined the group later in 2015. Irene, Joy, and Seulgi have already renewed their contracts in recent years.

Yeri's relationship with SM Entertainment has been under scrutiny in recent months. She previously voiced dissatisfaction with the company during Red Velvet's "Cosmic" comeback in mid-2024, citing issues such as delayed music video releases and poor communication.

Adding to the uncertainty, Yeri has been focusing on solo projects outside of music. She recently completed filming for her first lead role in a feature film titled "Next," a mystery-horror movie set to be released later this year.

Meanwhile, Wendy has thrived as a soloist and radio host, releasing successful albums such as Like Water (2021) and Wish You Hell (2024).