JYP Refutes VCHA KG′s Lawsuit: ′Allegations Are False and One-Sided′

JYP Refutes VCHA KG's Lawsuit: 'Allegations Are False and One-Sided': K-POP / 연합뉴스 / 2024-12-09 11:34:12

▲ This image of KG Crown of K-pop girl group VCHA is provided by JYP Entertainment. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)

SEOUL, Dec. 9 (Yonhap) -- Giant K-pop agency JYP Entertainment has expressed regret and promised a thorough response on Monday amid allegations from KG, an American member of the global girl group VCHA, about abuse by staff.

JYP USA, the company’s U.S.-based branch, released a statement saying, “We are deeply disappointed that KG has unilaterally made exaggerated and false claims public and opted to file a lawsuit. We will take all necessary measures to prevent further harm to other members of VCHA and our company.”

KG had previously taken to Instagram, alleging abuse by a specific staff member and claiming that restrictive working and living conditions had negatively impacted her mental health. She also announced her decision to leave the team and file a lawsuit against JYP.

▲ This image of K-pop girl group VCHA is provided by JYP Entertainment. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)

In contrast, JYP stated that KG left her dormitory in May and that the agency had been working to find a resolution. JYP added, “During discussions regarding her departure, KG presented unilateral claims and initiated a lawsuit, disrupting group activities.”

The agency clarified that it had paused VCHA’s promotional activities to address the issue and had been in contact with KG’s legal representatives to explore solutions. However, JYP said it had not received a response from KG’s side recently and was awaiting further communication.

JYP emphasized the negative impact of the lawsuit on the group, stating, “This legal action has caused significant harm to the other members of VCHA, who are preparing for an album release and various projects planned for the first half of 2025.”

VCHA is a joint South Korea-U.S. girl group formed under JYP Entertainment and Republic Records, a subsidiary of Universal Music Group. The group debuted in January 2023 as part of the global project A2K.