Girls’ Generation’s Yuri Ends 19-Year Partnership With SM Entertainment While Continuing Group Activities
Girls’ Generation’s Yuri to Leave SM Entertainment After 19 Years, Continues Activities as Group Member
Girls’ Generation member Yuri (Kwon Yuri) will officially part ways with SM Entertainment after 19 years, marking the end of one of the longest artist-agency partnerships in K-pop history.
On July 31, 2026, SM Entertainment announced that after discussions with Yuri, both sides agreed to conclude their exclusive contract on August 31, 2026.
Yuri Ends 19-Year Partnership With SM Entertainment
According to SM Entertainment’s official statement, the agency expressed gratitude for being part of Yuri’s journey from her debut with Girls’ Generation in 2007 to her growth as an artist across multiple fields.
The company highlighted Yuri’s achievements as an “all-rounder artist,” recognizing her activities not only in music but also in acting, variety programs, and hosting throughout her career.
After nearly two decades together, Yuri and SM Entertainment will officially end their exclusive contract on August 31.
Yuri Will Continue Activities as a Member of Girls’ Generation
Although Yuri’s exclusive contract with SM Entertainment will come to an end, this does not mean her departure from Girls’ Generation.
SM Entertainment confirmed that Yuri will continue her activities as a member of Girls’ Generation, allowing her to maintain her connection with the group moving forward.
The announcement comes as Girls’ Generation continues to celebrate its legacy as one of the most influential groups in K-pop history.
Yuri’s 19-Year Career With SM Entertainment
Yuri joined SM Entertainment as a trainee before making her debut as a member of Girls’ Generation in 2007.
As part of Girls’ Generation, she contributed to the group’s global success with iconic releases including “Gee,” “Genie,” “The Boys,” “I GOT A BOY,” and more.
Beyond music, Yuri expanded her career into acting, appearing in various television dramas and films while also building her reputation as a versatile entertainer.
A New Chapter for Yuri
Following the conclusion of her contract with SM Entertainment, attention is now focused on Yuri’s next steps as she begins a new chapter in her career.
While details regarding her future agency and individual activities have not yet been announced, fans are looking forward to seeing her continued growth as an artist and actress.
Final Thoughts
Girls’ Generation’s Yuri will officially end her 19-year journey with SM Entertainment on August 31, 2026.
However, this marks only the end of her exclusive contract with the company, not the end of her activities with Girls’ Generation. As Yuri begins a new chapter, fans can continue to support her future projects across music, acting, and entertainment.