Lim Young-min Parts Ways with Brand New Music After Five Years

Singer Lim Young-min has officially ended his contract with Brand New Music, five years after leaving his group due to a drunk driving incident. On June 26, Brand New Music announced, "We would like to inform you that the exclusive contract with our artist Lim Young-min has concluded." They added, "After in-depth discussions regarding future activities, both parties mutually agreed to terminate the contract. We sincerely thank everyone for their interest and love for Lim Young-min during this time."

On the same day, Lim Young-min shared a handwritten letter on his personal social media, expressing his feelings about the contract termination. He reflected, "It has been nine years since I first stepped into Brand New Music as a trainee in 2016, and now in 2025, I am embarking on a new beginning. I want to sincerely thank the Brand New Music family and CEO Rhymer for being my strong support throughout this journey."

He continued, "Most importantly, I am deeply grateful to the fans who have consistently supported and loved me. It was your warm hearts that allowed me to endure and dream during tough times. Now, I am ready to face you on a new stage. Although it feels a bit unfamiliar and quite scary, I am determined to take a step forward, encouraged by those who continue to cheer for me."

Lim Young-min concluded his message by asking fans to watch over his future journey with warm eyes and support, saying, "Please stay with me. I truly love you all, and thank you."

This marks the end of Lim Young-min's nine-year relationship with Brand New Music, coinciding with the five-year anniversary of his departure from the group due to the drunk driving incident. Lim gained popularity as a trainee on Mnet's Produce 101 Season 2 in 2017 and debuted with the group AB6IX in 2019, but left the team the following year after the incident. After fulfilling his military service, he returned to the entertainment industry in 2023 as a solo artist.