KG (KG Crown), a member of global girl group VCHA under JYP Entertainment, has filed a lawsuit to terminate her contract with the agency, citing incidents of abuse, mistreatment and terrible working conditions. The Dec. 8 announcement has led to growing concerns in the music industry about the treatment of idols.

In a 77-page lawsuit, 17-year-old KG expressed her struggles within the system and highlighted several critical issues, including an alleged suicide attempt by a member forced by unhealthy working conditions that led to her developing an eating disorder. She claimed that the incident was dismissed by the company as food poisoning. The incident reportedly occurred in February 2024, a month after the group began promoting around the world.

“Yesterday I filed a lawsuit because I decided to terminate my contract with JYP Entertainment and leave VCHA following incidents of abuse and mistreatment by certain employees. I feel like it wasn’t a good environment for my mental health and I apologize if my departure disappoints any of you,” KG shared.

KG emphasized her deep concern for the well-being of her fellow members and noted the disturbing working conditions that had serious consequences: “I do not support the working and living conditions that led a member to attempt suicide. I also do not support an environment that promotes eating disorders and has led to members self-harming.”

She said she endured mistreatment from certain staff members and criticized the agency’s lack of concern when members raised complaints. KG mentioned that she was ridiculed by her co-workers in front of other members, which ultimately left her feeling insecure.

KG expressed that the decision to leave VCHA and terminate her contract was not taken lightly and she believes it is crucial to speak out on the challenging conditions idols face in the industry.

As she reflected on her experiences, she realized that her decision was based on the realization that she could not develop into the artist she wanted to be in an unhealthy environment. “I also realized that I wouldn’t be able to become the artist I want to be if I stayed with JYP Entertainment because I really enjoy songwriting and production. “I accrued enormous corporate debt while being paid very little for the intense work and extreme restrictions on our personal life,” KG explained.

Despite the challenges, she acknowledged the positive moments she experienced during her time at VCHA and thanked JY Park and the leaders for their belief in her talent and the exceptional training she received. “Although there were such incidents, there were also beautiful moments,” she noted.

KG expressed her love and care for her fellow members and her hope for their well-being. She reiterated her commitment to creating music within the K-pop genre, albeit under more favorable conditions: “I hope that my vacation can encourage the K-pop system to make changes for the better, in the hope that “To protect remaining idols and trainees in the hands of these companies.”

JYP Entertainment confirmed that they had not yet received the official lawsuit, but acknowledged “differences of opinion” and previous conversations with KG representatives. The company stated that it intends to resolve the matter through appropriate legal channels.

Speculation about the member affected by the suicide attempt points to Kaylee, who has been on hiatus since March 2024.

Since this was announced, KG has been receiving tons of support from fans around the world. Hashtags like “We Love You KG” and “Always With KG” went viral.

For those who don’t know, VCHA is an American girl group based in Los Angeles, formed by JYP Entertainment and Republic Records as part of the reality competition show A2K. Formerly founded as a six-member group, the group now consists of five members: Lexi, Camila, Kendall, Savanna and Kaylee. They debuted their first single album “Girls of the Year” on January 26, 2024.

Please note: JYP Entertainment is home to several popular K-pop groups including Stray Kids, TWICE, 2 PM, Day6, ITZY and others.