Girls' Generation's Kwon Yu-ri Departs SM Entertainment After 19 Years, Group Activities to Continue

Kwon Yu-ri (권유리), a member of the popular South Korean girl group Girls' Generation, has officially announced her departure from SM Entertainment. The agency released an official statement today, August 31, confirming that after extensive discussions, both parties decided to conclude their 19-year management contract. However, SM Entertainment emphasized that Kwon will continue to participate in Girls' Generation's group activities, reassuring fans.

SM Entertainment stated in its official announcement on August 31, "We extend our gratitude to all the fans who have shown endless support and love for Kwon Yu-ri." The company noted that after thorough and prolonged discussions with Kwon, both sides reached a mutual agreement to officially end their 19-year partnership on August 31.

SM Entertainment added, "From her debut as a Girls' Generation member in 2007, leading the K-pop Hallyu wave globally, to growing into a group that defined an era, and then becoming an actress, SM has been honored to accompany Kwon Yu-ri through every significant stage."

The agency also thanked Kwon for her dedication and efforts across various fields, including music, acting, variety shows, and hosting, over the years. "Although her exclusive contract with our company has officially ended, Kwon Yu-ri's activities as a Girls' Generation member will continue as usual in the future. We sincerely wish her the best as she embarks on a new journey," the statement concluded.

Kwon debuted as a member of Girls' Generation in 2007. In addition to her singing career, she has actively pursued acting in recent years, starring in dramas such as “Good Job” and “The Judge of Probation, Lee Han-shin,” maintaining a strong presence in the entertainment industry as an actress.

With Kwon's departure, she becomes the fifth member to leave SM Entertainment while retaining her status as a Girls' Generation member. Currently, Kim Tae-yeon (김태연), Im Yoon-ah (임윤아), and Kim Hyo-yeon (김효연) remain under SM Entertainment. Lee Soon-kyu (이순규), Stephanie Hwang (스테파니 황), Choi Soo-young (최수영), and Seo Ju-hyun (서주현) have all moved to other agencies, but the group's activities have not been interrupted.