The time is nearing for Nicole's contract with DSP Media to expire!  

According to one entertainment representative, Nicole will officially wrap up KARA promotions in February and then go to the United States to study abroad.  Supposedly, she and her mother are in the process of preparing vocal and dance training.  In addition, Nicole's side disclosed to My Daily, "She is preparing to leave for America."

Additionally, Japanese media outlet 'Tokyo Sports' had reported on January 10, "Nicole has disappeared from the picture of the 5 KARA members for the Android Smart Phone application 'I Love Music' game."

The Korean communication carrier and Japanese corporation KT Japan responded to this with, "We acted one step ahead as Nicole's contract expires on the 16."  DSP Media told Sports World on January 13, "That was just a simple accident. The picture immediately returned to its original state."

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DSP Media also left a statement on KARA's official home page, "DSP Media's contract with Nicole, who had been a member of KARA for the last 7 years, will expire on January 16, 2014 . . . Her promotions with KARA will unfortunately come to an end, but we ask that you join us in supporting Nicole as she prepares for a new beginning."

In relation to KARA's future activities, the agency wrote, "This year, KARA are preparing for various activities, such as individual acting and an album release . . . We ask for the same amount of support and love in the future for the KARA members who wish to appear before their fans with an even newer image."