Last year, several groups who experienced the '7 Year Curse.'  For starters, 2009-debut groups 2NE1, 4Minute, and Rainbow decided to disband, while B2ST, miss A, and Secret had members leaving.

According to the standard contract provided by the Fair Trade Commission, the longest term an artist and an agency can have is a total of seven years. Gradually, this rule became the norm with various entertainment groups to follow protocol.  

With the basics aside and the coming of the new year, let's take a look at some of the idol groups under the 7 year debut range. It was previously announced that ZE:A's contract with Star Empire came to an end this month. The remaining groups are as follows: CNBLUE, SISTAR, INFINITE, Girl's Day, TEEN TOP, and Nine Muses.  We looked into these groups' promotion plans and contract renewals in detail.

SEE ALSO: Rookie girl group member accuses agency CEO of sexual harassment

Contract Renewal Forecast 'Clear': CNBLUE, Nine Muses, and Girl's Day. It appears CNBLUE isn't in jeopardy regarding the seven year crisis. Having debuted in January of 2010, the band has already renewed their contract with FNC Entertainment, back in 2014. Last year, they released a mini 6th album titled, 'BLUEMING', while all 4 of the members have also successfully transitioned into idol-turned actors. 

Nine Muses seems to be at a rather liberal standpoint compared to other artists.  Having debuted back in August of 2010, the team will be approaching its 7th year. But there have been slight changes in team members during that time frame, with Hyemi remaining as the original member. Nine Muses swapped members a total of nine times; last year, members Euaerin, Hyuna, and Minha all graduated from the group.

Girl's Day also looks to be in the winning position. Having debuted in July of 2010, it is true their contract is up for renewal this year. However, they've already renewed their contract with Dream Entertainment until 2019. The girls still appear to be going strong.

Contract Renewal Forecast 'Unpredictable': SISTAR, INFINITE, and TEEN TOP. It's been 7 years since SISTAR debuted. Having released their first album, 'Push, Push' in June of 2010, SISTAR continued to top the charts with their hit songs.  The group is set to release a new album during the second half of the year.

INFINITE is also looking to renew their contract this year. According to Woollim Entertainment, the group debuted in June of 2010, with just 5 months remaining until they reach the end of their contract. Though no official action has been taken yet, the members are looking to focus on their individual activities in the second quarter.

Finally, TEEN TOP has also reached the 7-year period. The group debuted back in July of 2010 with "Clap." Like INFINITE, the group has not taken any specific action as they still have 6 months to decide. Meanwhile, Niel is busy preparing for his solo activities. 

What are your views on the 7-year contract? And why the number 7 in particular?

Leave comments below!