K-pop agency JDB Entertainment is pulling out of the idol business following explosive affair allegations involving its CEO and a girl group member.
🚨 CEO and idol member take legal action over photo leaks
On June 16, the CEO of JDB Entertainment and a member of its subsidiary girl group filed a police complaint at Mapo Police Station. The accused is someone who uploaded photos online suggesting an affair between the two. Alleged crimes include defamation under the Information and Communications Network Act and stalking-related violations.
Photos, which recently surfaced on X (formerly Twitter), showed the CEO and the idol in intimate moments — hugging and holding hands in an outdoor parking lot. The CEO is reportedly married with two children, intensifying the public backlash.
The whistleblower is believed to be a sasaeng fan. JDB reportedly identified the location from the photos and submitted CCTV footage to the police. The agency also filed its own complaint, requesting a full investigation.
📉 CEO steps down, artists terminate contracts
Following the scandal, the CEO resigned from both JDB and its subsidiary label EFG Music. In an official statement on June 17, the company said:
"We sincerely apologize for causing concern. We are currently verifying the facts surrounding the issue."
The impact was immediate. Girl group Ehotewu, EFG Music's first signed act, began dissolving. Member Mina ended her contract first, followed by the remaining two members, Amu and Negi.
🎤 Entire artist roster collapses overnight
'Ehotewu', launched in October last year, was a 3-member group with a unique underground concept and a focus on live performances. But they weren't the only ones affected.
On June 16, live-stage idol Nana also canceled her contract. A day later, Hijack, a newly debuted band less than a month old, officially disbanded. EFG Music's entire artist lineup is now effectively gone, and the label has shut down its official website.
⛔ EFG halts all operations — future uncertain
"The CEO is unable to personally respond at this time," the label explained. "Given the overall situation, we have decided to temporarily suspend all activities."
The future of the company is still undecided. "Our internal staff is handling operational wrap-up. Whether the label continues or dissolves will be determined after legal consultation," they added.
JDB also admitted internal failures. "This incident stemmed from our lack of proper management and response. We respectfully ask everyone to refrain from excessive speculation, personal attacks, and spreading false rumors against our artists."