Red Velvet survived the 'cursed 7-year mark' for K-pop groups and recently celebrated their 9th anniversary in August.

According to the standard contract stipulated by the Fair Trade Commission, an exclusive contract in the K-pop industry is capped at a maximum of 7 years. This has led to the widely recognized 'seven-year jinx' or 'curse,' marking the benchmark where many groups don't survive.

Although Red Velvet never officially announced the members' first contract renewal, Red Velvet remained active after their 7th year.

However, the future is uncertain; the group’s relationship with SM Entertainment hangs in the balance as they approach their 10th year and evaluate their contract renewal options. As the group approaches their 10th year since their debut, members of Red Velvet are gradually considering alternative options.

The topic of Red Velvet's contract renewal first surfaced when Seulgi announced she renewed her contract with SM Entertainment. This diverted the attention to the contract renewal of the other members. However, there are reports surfacing that Irene is reconsidering her renewal.

This has understandably led to some anxiety among the group's fans who fear the worst - the ReVeluvs might not be able to see the five-member group together for a long time.

Many are commenting, "I really liked Red Velvet songs. I hope they can be active for a long long time," "I love Irene," "I wish the group can continue as five members," "I will be so disappointed if I don't get to see Red Velvet as a whole," "Red Velvet's music quality is so good so I would be sad if Irene doesn't renew," "To be honest, it's been 10 years since she debuted. I wish they would get to do solo activities," "What's going to happen to Red Velvet?," "I have a feeling she will renew," "I think Joy, Yeri, and Irene would branch off into acting," "What would she do if she leaves SM?" and "I just want to see Red Velvet maintain their group as a whole. I love their concept and songs."