AKMU’s Lee Chanhyuk and Lee Suhyun are officially parting ways with YG Entertainment after 12 remarkable years together.

On the 21st, YG Entertainment confirmed through an official announcement that the sibling duo—who have been with the label since their K-Pop Star Season 2 days—will be stepping into a new musical chapter once their contract expires in December.

According to the agency, executive producer Yang Hyun-suk personally met with Chanhyuk and Suhyun about six months ago. Over a warm, home-cooked dinner, they reminisced about their journey—from their first meeting on a 2012 audition stage to their current creative crossroads. The duo’s biggest dilemma? Whether to stay with YG, the company that has been their home for over a decade, or venture out and carve their own artistic path.

Yang encouraged them to explore life beyond YG, saying it would be a meaningful experience to pursue music in a fresh environment. Understanding their drive to constantly challenge themselves, he expressed his full support for whichever direction they chose.

After long reflection, AKMU decided it was time for a new adventure.

YG shared that even in their final moments with the company, the duo expressed unwavering affection, promising they would “come running anytime” and calling themselves “forever YG family.” They also handed CEO Yang heartfelt handwritten letters and offered a deep bow of gratitude.

Debuting in 2012 through K-Pop Star Season 2 and signing with YG the following year, AKMU has since delivered an impressive lineup of beloved hits—from “200%” to “Give Love”—solidifying their status as one of Korea’s most iconic sibling duos.

YG expressed immense pride in watching their growth and thanked them for filling the industry with memorable music and genuine artistry. The label emphasized that while AKMU is moving on, their bond remains strong, and YG will continue cheering them on from the sidelines.

As AKMU steps into this new era, YG asks fans to continue offering warm support for their next chapter—one that promises fresh challenges, new inspirations, and, as always, AKMU’s unmistakable musical magic.