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The American branch of the Korean entertainment company has been taken to court by a VCHA member over claims of mistreatment, overexploitation, and more.
JYP USA has refuted the allegations in KG’s lawsuit. (Photo Credit: Instagram)
JYP USA, the American division of the popular K-pop company JYP Entertainment, has gotten into legal trouble after Kiera Grace Madder (referred to as KG), a 17-year-old member of the JYP girl group VCHA alleged the company of child labour, exploitation, child neglect and unfair business practices. Taking the matter to court, the LA-based singer made a series of serious allegations also alleging that she and her bandmates even faced emotional, physical and mental distress.
While claiming that they had to work overtime without compensation, had restrictions on food and water, and had confusing contract terms, the filing also alleged that a VCHA member even tried to attempt suicide with little action done by those staff members in charge.
In a statement issued on Saturday, KG shared that she had terminated her contract and exited the group in May this year, further divulging details about the lawsuit filed in court.
JYP USA Reacts To KG’s Lawsuit
While the claims and the legal proceedings have sparked a fresh discussion amid the ongoing controversy over mistreatment within K-pop management agencies, JYP USA has issued an official response to address the allegations.
Confirming that the artist indeed left the group residence and initiated legal discussions in May this year, the statement added, “We have temporarily suspended VCHA’s planned activities and engaged in extensive discussions with KG’s representatives to explore potential resolutions. However, recently we have not received any response from KG’s representatives, leaving our legal representatives awaiting further communication,” as per Soompi.
It also mentioned that the artist’s decision to file a lawsuit and make unilateral public statements is “false and exaggerated,” adding that the remarks can harm the artist and the company’s reputation.
However, the online exchange does not end here as KG has once again taken to her Instagram stories to respond to JYP’s statement. Sharing that she feels “disappointed” with the company’s lack of accountability, she claimed that her legal team has enough evidence to prove her allegations as fact. “I’ll continue to fight for better treatment of K-pop idols and trainees in which I promise to speak nothing but the truth,” she continued, further urging other artists to voice their challenges in the K-pop industry.
