On September 23, Ten Asia reported that THE BOYZ‘s contract with IST Entertainment is set to expire in mid-December. The members have decided to seek a new agency rather than renewing their contract.
According to the Korea Entertainment Management Association’s “tampering” regulations, artists are allowed to contact or negotiate with other agencies regarding exclusive contracts three months before their current contract expires. As THE BOYZ’s contract is about three months from ending, they are now free to explore new opportunities.
It’s reported that the members are strongly committed to continuing activities as a full group, reflecting the strong bond between them. As a result, they are looking to move together to a new agency.
However, whether they can keep the name “THE BOYZ” remains to be seen, as IST Entertainment owns the trademark. While IST might allow the group to retain the name or sell the rights, this matter will be discussed in the future. Some groups that left their original agencies have had to change their group name for this reason.
Meanwhile, THE BOYZ has confirmed their comeback for late October. They last released their second full album, *PHANTASY Pt.3: Love Letter*, in March, promoting the title track “Nectar.”
After about 7 months, they are returning with a new album, and fans are curious about the concept they will present, now that the “PHANTASY Trilogy” has concluded.
THE BOYZ is also nearing the end of their third world tour. They kicked off the “THE BOYZ WORLD TOUR: ZENERATION Ⅱ” at KSPO Dome in Seoul this past July and have since visited 15 cities across North America, Asia, and Europe, connecting with their global fans. The tour will conclude with a concert in Osaka, Japan.
Since their debut in 2017, THE BOYZ gained widespread recognition after winning “Road to Kingdom” in 2020 with their high-caliber performances. They continued to expand their fanbase through their participation in “Kingdom” and have released hit tracks such as “Thrill Ride” and “The Stealer,” actively promoting their music.
Meanwhile, an official from IST told Newsen on the same day that their contracts with THE BOYZ members have not expired, adding, “We plan to continue discussions with the members.”