We are in an era now where the number of K-pop idols establishing their own agencies is increasing daily. It is now becoming common for South Korean stars to set up their own labels. Instead of being managed by already established agencies, these CEO-minded idols embraced an entrepreneurial spirit.

2023 alone witnessed numerous K-pop idols taking the bold step of establishing their agencies. Let’s check out those idols and the agencies they’ve set up.

Kino (Pentagon) – NAKED

After leaving CUBE Entertainment, Pentagon’s Kino announced the formation of his one-person agency, NAKED, on December 15. The name “NAKED” symbolizes approaching the public with an unadorned, authentic self.

Jennie (BLACKPNK) – ODD ATELIER

After renewing with YG Entertainment only for the group’s activities, BLACKPINK Jennie founded her one-person agency, ODD ATELIER, in November 2023. Jennie mentioned that she started her own label because she wanted to explore individual activities more freely.

D.O (EXO) – Company Soosoo

Company Soosoo, a one-person agency devoted to D.O.'s acting and solo musical endeavors, was co-founded in late 2023 by the vocalist of EXO and his longtime manager.

BAEKHYUN (EXO) – INB100

INB100 is an independent label founded last year by EXO’s vocalist Baekhyun. The label is now responsible for the individual and unit activities of the three EXO-CBX members: Chen, Baekhyun, and 
Xiumin.

Rocky (Former ASTRO) – ONE FINE DAY ENTERTAINMENT

After leaving ASTRO, Rocky founded his own agency, ONE FINE DAY ENTERTAINMENT, for his solo activities in August 2023. The label’s name contains the hope that every day will be a wonderful day.

Donghae & Eunhyuk (Super Junior) – ODE Entertainment

Two members of the veteran boy group Super Junior, Donghae and Eunhyuk, co-founded their own agency, ODE Entertainment, in 2023 to pursue their individual activities while remaining with SM Entertainment for group activities.

Jaejoong (Former TVXQ) – iNKODE

In May 2023, Jaejoong, the former member of the legendary boy band TVXQ, released an official statement stating that he had joined hands with a former vice president of CUBE Entertainment to launch iNKODE, his own agency.

Sunggyu (INFINITE) – INFINITE Company

Last year, Kim Sungkyu, the leader of INFINITE, founded INFINITE Company, a label solely dedicated to supporting the group’s activities. In July 2023, INFINITE made their first comeback with all the members under their new agency.

The key benefit of such agencies is the significant level of control and freedom they offer the artist. The move toward artist-owned agencies could potentially lead to a more balanced power dynamic between artists and entertainment companies.