K-pop has captivated the global music scene with its infectious melodies, jaw-dropping choreography, and gifted performers. While most K-pop idols find their footing under the guidance of established entertainment giants like SM, JYP, and YG, some trailblazers have carved their own paths by launching and managing their own agencies.

Join us as we explore the world of self-managed male K-pop idols who are making waves in the industry with their independent South Korean entertainment companies.

ZICO

In January 2019, Zico founded KOZ Entertainment, a label aimed at nurturing both his own career and those of other aspiring artists. However, in November 2020, news broke that HYBE Corporation had acquired Zico's label. As of April 2021, KOZ Entertainment is now operating as a subsidiary of HYBE Labels while still maintaining a degree of autonomy to pursue their own creative vision.

KANG DANIEL

Kang Daniel is a multi-talented South Korean artist proficient in singing, songwriting, and acting who operates under the management of his label, KONNECT Entertainment. Following a legal dispute with his previous agency, LM Entertainment, he parted ways with them in 2019. Shortly after, on June 10 of the same year, Kang Daniel established KONNECT Entertainment.

RAIN

Jung Ji-hoon is a popular South Korean celebrity who goes by the stage name Rain. He is a singer, songwriter, dancer, actor, and music producer. He was a former member of the boy group Fanclub and the co-ed group SSAK3. In 2015, he created his own agency called Rain Company. Artists under this company are the boy group Ciipher, actress Oh Yeju, and Rain himself.

JAY PARK

Park Jae-Beom, also known as Jay Park, established a new label called More Vision on March 3, 2022. Soloist Jessi has recently signed an exclusive contract with the label. Before this, Jay was the founder and CEO of two independent hip-hop record labels called AOMG and H1ghr Music. However, on December 31, 2021, he resigned as CEO of both companies but remained as an advisor.

PSY

PSY, whose real name is Park Jae-sang, officially left YG Entertainment in 2018. In the same year, on October 29, he established his own record label, P Nation, to oversee his own career and also support other artists. Popular artists like Jessi, Hyuna, and Dawn used to be under P Nation until last year. Currently, P Nation has artists like Crush, Heize, Penomeco, Swings, and the rookie boy group TNX.

Ravi

Kim Won-sik, also known as Ravi, is a renowned figure in the music industry. On June 26, 2019, Ravi announced the start of his own hip-hop label called GroovL1n. Korean rappers JUSTHIS, NAFLA, and the dance crew PRIMEKINGZ are currently under this label. Later on, in July 2021, Ravi started his second record label called The L1ve, and then in November 2021, he started his third label, Studio GL1DE.

Lee Seung Gi

Lee Seung-gi is a South Korean singer, lyricist, actor, MC, and entertainer under his own agency, Human Made. He is one of the highest-paid South Korean celebrities. On June 1, 2021, it was announced that Lee Seung-gi had established a one-person production company, Human Made, for his future activities. Prior to this, he was an artist under the record label Hook Entertainment.

These K-pop idols have proven that it is possible to manage themselves and be successful in the industry. By establishing their own agencies, they have the freedom to create music that is true to themselves and their style.