An increasing number of K-pop idols are choosing not to renew their contracts with major agencies due to restrictions on creative freedom and limited control over their music. Industry insiders attribute this trend to changes in media and production that have given idols more power over their careers, with social media and independent publishers reducing the reliance on major agencies for success. Despite improved conditions, local entertainment companies are frustrated by idols leaving after years of investment in their development. In specific cases involving G-Idle's Soyeon and Red Velvet's Joy, potential conflicts with their agencies, Cube Entertainment and SM Entertainment respectively, have been hinted at. Soyeon's altered lyric during a performance and Joy's public expression of dissatisfaction have raised questions about their contract renewals. The evolving power dynamics between K-pop agencies and idols, as highlighted by music critic Lim Hee-yun, emphasize the changing landscape where artists can now connect directly with fans and seek creative freedom through smaller management companies or independent publishing.