Im Young-min, who left the group AB6IX due to drunk driving, has shared his feelings about the end of his exclusive contract with his agency Brand New Music.
On the 26th, Im Young-min posted a handwritten letter on his Instagram, stating, “In 2016, I took my first step as a trainee at Brand New Music, and now, nine years have passed, and in 2025, I will start anew.”
He added, “I sincerely thank the Brand New Music family who have walked with me all this time, and CEO Rhymer, who has been a strong support.”
Im Young-min also expressed his gratitude to the fans who have shown unwavering love and support, saying, “Now I intend to face you on a new stage. It feels a bit unfamiliar and quite scary, but I want to take a courageous step forward because there are those who continue to support me.”
Previously, Brand New Music's label Brand New A announced, “After in-depth discussions regarding future activities, we mutually agreed to terminate the exclusive contract with Im Young-min.”
Im Young-min gained recognition by participating in Mnet’s ‘Produce 101 Season 2’ in 2017. He debuted as AB6IX in May 2019 but left the team in June 2020 after being caught drunk driving.
After enlisting in the military, Im Young-min has been active as a solo artist since his discharge in May 2022.
Below is the full statement from Im Young-min.
Hello, this is Im Young-min.
In 2016, I took my first step as a trainee at Brand New Music, and now, nine years have passed, and in 2025, I am starting anew.
I sincerely thank the Brand New Music family who have walked with me all this time, and CEO Rhymer, who has been a strong support.
Above all, I sincerely thank the fans who have watched over me with unwavering love and support. It was because of your warm hearts that I could endure moments and dream.
Now I intend to face you on a new stage. It feels a bit unfamiliar and quite scary, but I want to take a courageous step forward because there are those who continue to support me.
I would appreciate it if you could watch over and support my journey ahead with warm eyes. Please be with me. I sincerely love you, and thank you.
[Kim Mi-ji, Star Today Reporter]
