K-pop agency RBW acquires 257 Entertainment in global push

▲ "Genderless" K-pop idol group Xlov is seen in this photo provided by RBW. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)

Kpop agency-acquisition

K-pop agency RBW acquires 257 Entertainment in global push

By Shim Sun-ah

SEOUL, March 11 (Yonhap) -- RBW, the agency behind K-pop acts Mamamoo and Oh My Girl, has acquired 257 Entertainment, which manages the "genderless" idol group Xlov, as part of its global expansion push.

RBW said Wednesday its subsidiary WM Entertainment signed an agreement to comprehensively take over the business of 257 Entertainment and has begun the post-merger integration process.

Under the deal, WM will take over 257's intellectual property, exclusive artist contracts and employees.

Following the acquisition, 257 Entertainment CEO Park Jae-yong will be appointed co-CEO of WM Entertainment, alongside current CEO Kim Jin-woo, establishing a dual management system.

Launched in January 2025 with members Rui, Haru, Wumuti and Hyun, Xlov is the first K-pop boy group to pursue a genderless concept. The members previously gained recognition through major audition shows, such as Mnet's "Boys Planet," and built a strong international fan base even before their debut.

RBW CEO Kim Jin-woo said the company valued 257's "creative approach" and expected the acquisition to generate strong synergies by combining the business infrastructure and know-how of RBW, DSP Media and WM Entertainment.

"We will do our utmost to expand the intellectual property of Xlov in the global market," he added.

Park said the deal would help expand trends in the K-pop scene more quickly across the global market.

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