Wendy and Yeri from Red Velvet have officially concluded their exclusive agreements with the company. SM Entertainment The news was shared on April 4, 2025, via the organization's verified social media platforms. This statement clarified that although the pair is departing from the management firm, they will continue as integral parts of Red Velvet.
Red Velvet is a South Korean The girl group was established by SM Entertainment in 2014. They made their debut featuring four members: Wendy, Irene, Seulgi, and Joy. In 2015, Yeri added her presence to complete the quintet lineup.
It's worth mentioning that both Wendy and Yeri have established themselves as cherished solo artists.
Per All Kpop , SM Entertainment released an official statement to address the issue, saying:
Hello, this is SM Entertainment. We want to notify you that our exclusive agreements with Wendy and Yeri have concluded. From their first appearance with Red Velvet, both Wendy and Yeri have not only thrived within the group but also pursued individual careers across multiple areas. Our journey with Wendy and Yeri has indeed been a wonderful experience filled with joy.
It continues:
We value all the moments we've shared thus far and genuinely back Wendy and Yeri as they embark on new journeys. Moreover, both Wendy and Yeri will keep joining Red Velvet’s collective endeavors alongside us. We warmly request you to stay tuned for Red Velvet’s dazzling path forward.
It also added,
We want to extend our deepest appreciation for the constant love and encouragement you've provided to Wendy and Yeri. We trust that you'll continue to kindly oversee and back them as they tackle fresh hurdles along their individual journeys. Thanks.
Audiences respond to Wendy and Yeri from Red Velvet leaving SM Entertainment.
The Kpop Charts shared on their official X (previously known as Twitter) account the following message:
Yeri and Wendy from Red Velvet haven't extended their contracts with SM Entertainment and will be leaving the company. However, they will still remain active as members of Red Velvet.
Internet users promptly joined the discussion in the comments section of the post, sharing their opinions about the matter. Here are some of their remarks:
"Thinking this might be a roundabout method of saying farewell," wrote an X user .
“I’m not sure whether I should feel sad or happy,” he/she stated. another .
"SM played a massive role in their journey, and witnessing them progress is quite touching. Thankful for all they shared with us there," remarked an individual. third .
"IF THEY CONTINUE TO MISTREAT MY TWO FAVORITE IDOLS, I WILL TEAR DOWN THE NEW AGENCY," remarked someone. fourth .
"I love how this year has become a time when idols are leaving harmful groups to go solo. I'm hoping for a scenario where a former BTS member departs from Hybe," commented one observer. fifth .
According to reports, in 2023, SM began discussions with Red Velvet members about extending their contracts. Seulgi was the first to renew her agreement in August 2023, succeeded by Irene in February 2024 and Joy in January 2025.
Wendy and Yeri chose not to extend their contracts. The group has transitioned into a hybrid structure—an increasingly common approach in K-pop where members stay part of the ensemble but are separately represented by different management firms.