2011 was without a doubt one of the worst years for YG Entertainment, a company that houses some of K-Pop's most recognizable names. From Daesung's car accident to the controversy surrounding G-Dragon's alleged use of marijuana, the past year has left a large dent onto not only the two aforementioned idols, but on to the company's image as well. While the incidents involving the two idols have become resolved one way or the other, Yang Hyun Suk, founder and CEO of the company has expressed much hope for 2012. He envisions 2012 as the year to recover the company financially and to mend YG's controversy-stricken image.

Currently, YG's main focus is to re-establish Big Bang as a unit. The group is arguably the company's poster of success, and considering its huge role in generating a significant percentage of YG's income, making Big Bang's comeback as smooth as possible is a strategical move for both the company and the group's fans.

"I had no one to blame but my self" says Yang, "The Big Bang members are like my children. I've been coaching them since they were little kids, watching them develop from amateurs into pros. So naturally, I took the accidents into consideration not as a businessman, but much like how a parent would"

Yang, as a former member of K-Pop pioneers Seo Taiji and the Boys, knows better than anyone of the troubles of being an iconic figure in the industry. He stated that this was one of the many factors that enables him to keep an understanding mindset when it comes to dealing with his artists.

"I've spent the last ten years reprimanding, teaching and disciplining the boys as a father would," says Yang, "It broke my heart to see [G-Dragon and Daesung] suffer because I couldn't do anything to ease the emotional trauma they suffered"

"I think the boys and I all learned a lesson from what happened in 2011," continued Yang, "After the two controversies broke out, each and every single member didn't go out on their free time; they solely dedicated themselves to their work. The boys became stronger than ever as artists, and as a group"

Yang then expressed that he is looking towards 2012 under a positive light. While the controversy dimmed the company's ability to prosper for the time being, he is anticipating much to be accomplished in the New Year, starting off with Big Bang.

Big Bang is currently preparing for a comeback this February, and because K-Pop has to now cater not only to the Korean audience, but practically the entire world, Yang feels the pressure to release material that nears perfection.

Aside from the group's impending return, Big Bang has a lot coming to them for 2012. With a series of heavy promotions expected for their upcoming album "Alive", the group is also planning to embark on their first world tour, with show dates not just in Asia, but in Europe and North America as well.



Source & Image: Mydaily via Nate