After 25 Years, Is Girls’ Generation’s Yuri Ready to Leave SM Entertainment? Here’s What We Know
Speculation is growing that Girls’ Generation member Yuri could become the latest longtime SM Entertainment artist to part ways with the agency.
According to a report by TenAsia published on Saturday, July 4, Yuri’s exclusive contract with SM Entertainment is set to expire next month. The singer and actress is reportedly carefully considering whether to renew her contract or sign with a new agency.
Yuri has been with SM Entertainment for 25 years, having joined the company as a trainee in 2001 before making her debut as a member of Girls’ Generation in 2007.
Actress Career Said to Be a Key Consideration
The report states that Yuri, who has balanced her career as both an idol and an actress, is considering joining an agency that specializes in managing actors.
Since launching her acting career in 2016, Yuri has appeared in a number of Korean dramas and films while continuing her music activities.
However, the report also noted that the star intends to continue promoting with Girls’ Generation subunit HyoRiSoo alongside fellow members Hyoyeon and Sooyoung. As a result, she is said to be weighing multiple factors before making a final decision about her future representation.
A 25-Year Journey With SM Entertainment
Yuri first entered SM Entertainment after winning the best dancer award at a youth competition in 2001. She trained for six years before debuting with Girls’ Generation, one of K-pop’s most influential girl groups.
Over the years, she has built a career spanning music, television, and film, establishing herself as both a performer and actress under the agency.
Fans Split Over Her Next Move
The reports have sparked debate among fans online, with opinions divided over what would be the best path forward for the artist.
Some believe remaining with SM Entertainment would provide greater stability for her ongoing activities with HyoRiSoo, while others argue that joining an agency focused on actors could better support the next phase of her acting career.
One user wrote, “Since she is an actor, I think it would be okay if she goes to an acting agency…,” while another commented, “That’s right; SM really isn’t great for an acting career”.
“I imagine the members of Girls’ Generation and artists associated with the group will handle their music activities under SM, while their acting work might be managed by an agency that specializes in actors,” shared a third one.
Neither Yuri nor SM Entertainment has publicly commented on the reports, and no official decision regarding her contract has been announced.
