Lee Jun-ho, a prominent figure in the K-pop industry, is set to depart from JYP Entertainment after an impressive tenure of 17 years. The announcement made on March 20, 2025, confirmed that his contract will officially conclude on April 15, and the artist has opted not to renew.
The news caught many fans off guard, although some had anticipated such a change eventually. Fans expressed a mix of emotions, ranging from well-wishes for the future endeavors of 2PM’s Lee Jun-ho to feelings of nostalgia. Here’s a glimpse into the community’s heartfelt responses:
“As another human in 30s journey, I really respect your courage as leaving a place you’ve relied on for 17 yrs is NOT easy. It’s exciting but also nerve wrecking. As your fan, I can only greedily wish and pray the absolute best new door will be opened up for you.”
The singer not only dedicated nearly two decades at JYP to enhance his group and solo career but also built strong connections with fans along the way. Many have shared their hopes and blessings for Lee Jun-ho’s upcoming projects.
“Omg??? End of an era”a user wrote.
“It might not have been an easy decision, I mean, he stayed there for 17 years….. but, I guess it’s about time… No matter what, we will support you all the way, my dear”a fan replied.
“This made me sad I loved his interactions with skz, hope they can meet in the future”another user wrote.
Lee Jun-ho’s exit from JYP raises intriguing questions about his future within the 2PM group. It’s not uncommon for idols to continue participating in group activities even after leaving their associated labels, similar to Taecyeon from 2PM and members of EXO such as Chen, Xiumin, and Baekhyun.
“So, did he leave for solo work and come back for group work or is he fully gone from 2PM as well?”a fan commented.
“it’s ok, leaving JYP is not the end of the world, even it opens a new challenge and opportunity, I wish Junho would have good luck everyday, and I believe he will, because he is a hard working man”a user wrote.
“New chapter! I sincerely wish you success on your new path, I am sure that it is a thoughtful decision that will definitely lead to even greater success!! Always by your side!May all your dreams come true”another fan wrote.
Despite ending his contract, JYP Entertainment will continue to manage Lee Jun-ho’s activities in Japan. He becomes the third member of 2PM to exit the label, following Chansung and Taecyeon, with details regarding his next agency yet to be disclosed.
A Reflection on Lee Jun-ho’s Journey with JYP Entertainment
Lee Jun-ho debuted with 2PM in 2008 under JYP Entertainment. Since that time, he has been pivotal in shaping the group’s music through his significant contributions to compositions and lyrics. His acting career commenced in 2013 with the film Cold Eyes, and he gained widespread recognition through his role in the television series King the Land alongside SNSD’s Yoona, which is reportedly being adapted for a U.S. audience.
Furthermore, Lee Jun-ho recently showcased his versatility by playing a pastry chef in the Japanese film Le Maison Paris alongside Takuya Kimura.
Fans can look forward to Lee Jun-ho’s upcoming appearances in the Netflix superhero series Cashero and in tvN’s Typhoon Company, where he co-stars with Kim Min-ah from Pachinko. He portrays Tae Poong, a company head navigating the tumultuous economic landscape during the 1997 IMF crisis, with broadcasts slated for this year on weekends.