Wendy and Yeri, members of the popular K-pop girl group Red Velvet, have officially parted ways with their agency, SM Entertainment, after a decade of collaboration. The announcement, made on April 4, 2025, has sent ripples through the fandom, known as ReVeluv, as fans grapple with the implications of this change.
In a heartfelt message shared via the fan communication platform Bubble, Wendy expressed her gratitude towards SM Entertainment, stating, "The company has been with us for a long time and helped me become who I am today. I am preparing to embrace a new challenge." She emphasized her appreciation for the support from fans and fellow group members, saying, "Each moment with the fans was precious. With their support and love, I was able to take these steps. I also want to thank the members [of the group] who supported me in this decision. With them by my side, I feel more confident about the future."
Wendy reassured fans that Red Velvet remains a priority for her, declaring, "Red Velvet is more precious to me than anything. I will continue being Wendy of Red Velvet and show new sides of myself." This sentiment was echoed by Yeri, who also announced her departure from SM Entertainment, indicating a similar path as her group mate.
In a statement, SM Entertainment confirmed the end of exclusive contracts for both Wendy and Yeri, while clarifying that their group activities with Red Velvet will continue uninterrupted. The agency expressed, "The time we spent together with Wendy and Yeri, who—after debuting as Red Velvet—were not only active in group promotions but also as solo artists in various fields, was a great joy for us as well. We will cherish all the moments we have spent together with them until now, and we will sincerely root for Wendy and Yeri as they make a new start."
Fans were not entirely surprised by the announcement, as Yeri had hinted at upcoming news just a day prior. On April 3, she took to Bubble to share, "Tomorrow, some news about me and the company will be posted. I just wanted to tell you in advance so you wouldn’t be surprised. My heart will always be full of love for you; that will never change!"
While the departure from SM Entertainment marks a significant change for Wendy and Yeri, it does not signal the end of Red Velvet. In fact, the group is set to continue their collective activities, with Irene, Seulgi, and Joy remaining under SM Entertainment's management. Irene renewed her contract in February 2024, Seulgi in August 2023, and Joy in January 2025, ensuring that the group will maintain its integrity and continuity moving forward.
Red Velvet debuted in August 2014 with their hit single "Happiness," quickly establishing themselves as one of the most versatile girl groups in the industry. They are known for their unique dual concept—"Red" representing vibrant pop tracks and "Velvet" showcasing a smoother, R&B-influenced sound. This dynamic has allowed them to capture a wide audience and evolve artistically over the years.
As Wendy and Yeri prepare to navigate their new paths, the future of Red Velvet looks promising. Fans can expect to see both members continue to contribute to the group while exploring individual opportunities. Wendy has already made strides as a solo artist, having released two mini-albums: "Like Water" in 2021 and "Wish You Hell" in 2024. Yeri has also been active, releasing her own singles that have resonated with fans.
The K-pop landscape is known for its rapid changes, and the departure of two members from their agency is a testament to the evolving nature of the industry. However, the commitment of Wendy and Yeri to Red Velvet remains strong, as both have expressed their desire to continue working together as a group. With their individual contracts ending, they are now in the process of carefully selecting new management that will support both their solo and group endeavors.
Despite the uncertainty that often accompanies changes in K-pop, the loyalty of ReVeluv remains unwavering. Fans have taken to social media to express their support for Wendy and Yeri, celebrating their contributions to Red Velvet while also preparing for what lies ahead. The announcement has sparked speculation about potential new directions for the group and the individual careers of its members.
As Red Velvet continues to shine brightly in the K-pop scene, the future looks bright for both the group and its individual members. The journey ahead is filled with promise, and fans are eager to see how Wendy and Yeri will embrace their new challenges while remaining integral parts of Red Velvet.
In a world where K-pop idols often face intense scrutiny and pressure, Wendy and Yeri's decision to step away from their agency while maintaining their group identity is a bold move. It reflects a growing trend among artists seeking more control over their careers and creative expressions. As they embark on this new chapter, the support from their fans will undoubtedly play a crucial role in their continued success.
