Yeri’s Emotional Message
Red Velvet’s Yeri has sparked both concern and heartfelt reactions from fans after sending a deeply emotional message hinting at a major announcement, now confirmed to be the end of her exclusive contract with SM Entertainment.
On April 3, 2025, Yeri reached out via her paid subscription messaging service, stating that news involving her and her agency would be announced the next morning. Her message, filled with love and reassurance for her fans, suggested that the news might not be entirely positive, “Tomorrow morning, a piece of news concerning me and my agency will be released… I just wanted to tell you guys first rather than have you see it in an article and be surprised, so I came to you first! So, what I mean to say is, my love for you will not change!”
Yeri continued her interaction with fans, saying:
“I love you, my fans!”
“Our Luvies, I just wanted to say I love you.”
As a result, many fans speculated that Yeri might be leaving SM Entertainment
Wendy’s Official Statement
On April 4, Wendy published a statement, saying, “After spending a long time together, I have decided to conclude my exclusive contract with SM Entertainment, the company that shaped who I am today, and I’m preparing to take on new challenges in a different environment.”
She also added, “I sincerely thank all the members of the SM family who made it possible for me to debut as part of Red Velvet and meet our ReVeluvs (fans of Red Velvet). I believe it is because of the immense support and consideration I received that I’ve been able to become who I am today. And above all, to ReVeLuvs — who have always stood by me with warm love and encouragement — every moment with you has been truly precious. That strength allowed me to keep moving forward, step by step, no matter what came my way.”
Finally, Wendy explained her reason for this decision, saying, “I wanted to take a leap of courage because I have the desire to explore a bigger world and take on new challenges. And I especially want to sincerely thank my beloved members who supported this decision. Because they’ve always been there to give me strength, I believe I’ll be able to continue heading confidently into the future.”
SM’s Official Announcement
On April 4, SM Entertainment announced, “The exclusive contracts with Red Velvet members Wendy (Son Seung-wan) and Yeri (Kim Ye-rim) have ended.”
However, in a move that surprised many, both Yeri and Wendy will continue Red Velvet’s group activities despite their contract expirations. SM added, “The time spent with Wendy and Yeri, who debuted with Red Velvet and have since thrived as solo artists in various fields, has been a great joy. We will cheer them on in their new beginnings.”
They also asked fans to continue supporting the two, “Please show warm interest in the future endeavors of the two members as they embark on new challenges in their respective paths.”
Red Velvet, who debuted in 2014, has remained one of K-pop’s most iconic girl groups with hits like “Ice Cream Cake,” “Russian Roulette,” “Peek-A-Boo,” and “Red Flavor.” While changes in individual contracts often raise concerns about group disbandment, SM’s statement reassures fans that Red Velvet will continue as five, for now.
The news marks a new chapter for Yeri and Wendy, who are expected to pursue solo endeavors while maintaining their presence in Red Velvet’s upcoming activities. Fans are now watching closely to see what bold, creative steps Yeri will take next.