Contract Conclusion: Wendy and Yeri's individual exclusive contracts with SM Entertainment have officially ended.
Group Continuity: Both members will remain active within Red Velvet for all group-related activities.
Other Members: Irene, Seulgi, and Joy previously renewed their contracts with SM Entertainment (Seulgi in August 2023, Irene in February 2024, and Joy in January 2025).
Agency Statement: SM Entertainment expressed gratitude for their time with Wendy and Yeri and offered sincere support for their future individual endeavors outside the company, while reaffirming their commitment to Red Velvet's group activities.
Why this matters: This arrangement highlights a growing trend in K-pop where members seek individual representation while maintaining group commitments. It offers Wendy and Yeri greater autonomy over their solo careers (like Wendy's solo music and Yeri's acting) without disbanding the beloved group.
Red Velvet, managed by SM Entertainment, debuted in August 2014 and quickly rose to fame with their unique dual concept ("Red" for pop and "Velvet" for R&B/ballads). The group, consisting of Irene, Seulgi, Wendy, Joy, and Yeri, boasts numerous hit songs including "Happiness," "Ice Cream Cake," "Red Flavor," "Psycho," "Feel My Rhythm," and "Queendom."
The decision for Wendy (main vocalist) and Yeri (singer/actress) to not renew their individual contracts comes after extended negotiations. SM Entertainment's official statement emphasized the positive relationship: "Since debuting as Red Velvet, it has been a great happiness for us to spend time with Wendy and Yeri... We will cherish all the moments we have built up so far and sincerely support Wendy and Yeri for their new start." Critically for fans (ReVeluvs), the statement added, "Wendy and Yeri will be with us in their group activities as Red Velvet members." This assures that Red Velvet will continue forward as a five-member group, maintaining the lineup that fans cherish.
Q: Are Wendy and Yeri leaving Red Velvet?
A: No, they are only leaving SM Entertainment for managing their solo careers. They will continue to be active members of Red Velvet for all group promotions.
Q: Have all Red Velvet members left SM Entertainment?
A: No. Irene, Seulgi, and Joy renewed their exclusive contracts with SM Entertainment between 2023 and early 2025. Only Wendy and Yeri's individual contracts have concluded.
Q: What agency will manage Wendy and Yeri's solo activities now?
A: Details regarding new representation or management for Wendy and Yeri's solo careers have not yet been announced. They will continue group activities under SM Entertainment's coordination.
Your favorite group, Red Velvet, is staying together as five members.
Expect continued music, performances, and content from Red Velvet as a group.
Wendy and Yeri now have the freedom to explore solo projects (music, acting, variety shows) potentially under different management or independently.
This model allows established idols more flexibility in balancing group identity with individual career growth.
This news marks a new chapter for both the members and the group. What are your hopes for Wendy and Yeri's solo careers, and what kind of group activities are you looking forward to from Red Velvet?
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Source 1: Red Velvet's Wendy and Yeri end contract with SM Entertainment. What's next? - Hindustan Times target="_blank"
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