JAY PARK FUTURE PLAN AFTER LEAVING A ROLE AS CEO IN PREVIOUS AGENCY

Previously, Hip-hop artist and producer Jay Park said he would be stepping down as CEO of AOMG and H1ghr Music, two independent music labels he had spearheaded. In his letter, Jay Park expressed his sincere gratitude toward his fans as well as all artists and staff under both labels. AOMG was previously founded by Jay Park back in 2013, while H1GHR MUSIC Records was co-founded by Jay Park and producer Cha Cha Malone in 2017.

After the surprising announcement, many netizens and fans alike gathered in an online community to express their reaction. Many were worried that Jay Park was preparing for his retirement and hoped that Jay Park will continue in his music career despite stepping down. Netizens commented, "Oh wow," "This is such a big surprise," "I hope he's not getting to retire," "It's okay if he takes a long break as long as he doesn't retire," "Yeah Jay Park needs a break, he's been working so hard," "As long as he's not retiring," "I want to see him often," and "He can take a break. He needs it."

According to industry representatives, he is working on establishing a new label so that he can launch an idol group. In particular, Kakao Entertainment is expected to make a large investment in it.

Jay, who got his start in JYP Entertainment’s boy band 2PM in 2008 before leaving the following year to pursue a solo career, had started discussing his retirement in 2019. At the time, he spoke with Forbes and said he hoped to do more things behind the scenes.

Industry representatives commented, “Just like JYP Park Jin Young successfully [created] a large number of idol groups with his colors, Jay Park will be able to bring a new wave to the music industry by producing idols with his own style.”

Meanwhile, Jay Park and Honey J have been friends for a long time due to their mutual B-boy pals. Honey J, who recently appeared on Mnet's Street Woman Fighter, currently serves as HolyBang's leader. She also works as Jay Park's choreographer. On Thursday, she told "Kia-Kya TV" host Hong Hyun Hee the real score between her and the rapper. According to the dancer, she has known Jay Park for a long time since they have a lot of mutual b-boy friends. Since the rapper was b-boying as well, they just did not get close but also started working as dancers. Although they are not romantically connected, Jay Park and Honey J actually have a deeper relationship than expected.

On Teuk TV's YouTube channel, she revealed that the rapper was a big help during the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the dancer, people in the industry faced financial problems due to the reduced number of dance lessons and concerts.

On January 11, Kakao Entertainment responded to the reports, saying, “Jay Park is an artist with talent in various fields as a singer and producer, and we are currently discussing various types of business partnerships, but nothing has been specifically confirmed.”