YG Entertainment has released a statement amid rumors of 2NE1 disbanding.
YG Entertainment stated on April 5, "We are sorry to have to relay some sad news to the many fans who have patiently waited for 2NE1. We are officially letting you know that 2NE1′s maknae Gong Minzy will no longer be a part of 2NE1."The statement continues, "With 2NE1′s contract expiring on May 5, 2016, YG had talks with each of the 2NE1 members in January to express our intention to re-sign them and our will for 2NE1 to take off again, but unfortunately Gong Minzy wasn't on the same page as us."
2NE1 halted activities two years ago following Park Bom′s scandal. CL focused on U.S. promotions, while Sandara Park has appeared on variety shows in Korea. However, Park Bom and Gong Minzy were not particularly active. Minzy also deleted the name 2NE1 from her social media accounts, leading to rumors that the group is disbanding.
The end of 2NE1′s contract period is also drawing near, and there have been reports stating that Gong Minzy has been in touch with other agencies, further adding fuel to the fire.
The YG rep stated, "Along with the three remaining members resigning, they are currently working on a new song with a summer release in mind, and we are not considering adding a new member to replace Gong Minzy."