J-Min Suspends Activities with BAE173 Following 20-Hour Missing Report

J-Min’s Departure from BAE173: A Controversial Move

Recent news reported by TenAsia reveals that J-Min, a member of the boy band BAE173, has decided to step back from the group in order to concentrate on his new project, CLOSE YOUR EYES. This information came to light last month when he communicated his intentions to both PocketDol Studio, the agency representing BAE173, and his fellow members.

According to a statement from a BAE173 member identified as A, “J-Min expressed a strong desire to pursue activities with CLOSE YOUR EYES, which left us disappointed. Although we wanted to persuade him to remain, it was clear he was resolute in his decision.” J-Min’s current contract with BAE173 is set to expire in 2027, yet his new agreement with CLOSE YOUR EYES overlaps for three years. This timing raises concerns about the future viability of BAE173, as they may not be operational by the end of J-Min’s new commitment.

Group Dynamics Post-Departure

Despite J-Min’s exit, the remaining members of BAE173 remain optimistic about their future. Member A stated, “We will strive to move forward. Opportunities for comebacks are rare.” The group is poised to release a new album in April or May, marking a crucial moment as they adjust to the absence of J-Min. Since his announcement, there have been no communications between him and the other members, and he notably missed a fan signing event on January 10.

The Rise of CLOSE YOUR EYES

J-Min’s journey continues as he joins CLOSE YOUR EYES, a group formed during JTBC’s survival audition program “PROJECT 7.” His selection came while he was still a member of BAE173, which has been active since 2020. However, the transition has not been without complications, as a contract conflict emerged between PocketDol Studio and UNCORE, the agency overseeing CLOSE YOUR EYES. This disagreement stems from differing terms in the contracts that have hindered J-Min’s official enrollment in the new group.

Legal Complications and Disputes

The legal landscape is further complicated by PocketDol’s assertion that the terms of PROJECT 7 changed after its conclusion. A spokesperson for PocketDol stated, “Initially, the agreement allowed J-Min to pursue dual commitments, but the final contract mandates that he must exit BAE173 to join CLOSE YOUR EYES.” They warned that should J-Min suspend his activities with BAE173, legal action for breach of contract would be considered.

In contrast, UNCORE contends that J-Min’s actions are not in violation of any existing contracts. An UNCORE representative clarified, “All contestants and their respective agencies were informed from the outset that individuals selected to be part of the project group could not engage in other group activities without our explicit consent.”

Uncertain Future

Attempts by TenAsia to contact J-Min yielded no response, and representatives from CLOSE YOUR EYES declined to comment on the conflicting contract situations, citing the sensitive nature of such discussions.

CLOSE YOUR EYES was officially established in late 2022 and includes J-Min along with other members: Sakurada Kenshin, Ma Jingxiang, Seo Kyung-bae, Song Seung-ho, Jang Yeo-jun, and Kim Sung-min. The group operates under UNCORE, a collaborative entity formed by SLL, linked to JoongAng Group, and YG PLUS, a subsidiary of YG Entertainment.

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