Monsta X members renews contract with Starship Entertainment except for their lead rapper I.M but will stay as a six-piece group for upcoming projects
South Korean boy group MONSTA X renewed theircontract under Starship Entertainment except lead rapper I.M, who has chosen to leave the agency, said a statement released on Monday, August 8.
“Lately, MONSTA X members Shownu, Minhyuk, Kihyun, Hyungwon, and Joohoney have renewed their contracts with Starship Entertainment. As all six members share the same thoughts and affection towards the group and MONBEBE, I.M has agreed to continue and participate in the group's future plans,” the statement read.
However, even after I.M’s departure, the agency assured that the group would still continue to work together with I.M still being a part of MONSTA X for their upcoming projects.
“Our sincere appreciation goes out to I.M for the hard work and dedication he has shown over the years. We will support him wholeheartedly for both his participation as a member of Monsta X and an individual artist.”
Meanwhile, I.M, whose real name is Im Changkyun, took to the group’s official fan café to share a handwritten letter.
“Hello. This is MONSTA X’s I.M.
Seven years have gone by since I made my first start as a singer with Starship.
As we’ve been together for a long time, I’ve grown fond [of Starship], but I thought I needed a new challenge with different meaning, so after a lot of thinking, I came to this decision,” the statement read.
MONSTA X’ maknae then went on to thank his Starship family members who according to him he has spent days “laughing and crying together.”
I.M also addressed Monbebe, the group’s fanbase, sending his sincere appreciation and gratitude for providing some of their “happiest and brightest moments” with the group.
“I will prioritize MONSTA X’s promotions and MONSTA X will be with Monbebe as six, like always,” he then promised.
Tags: #Kpop, #boygroup, #music