Sulli parts ways with f(x), Jessica plans solo debut in China
SEOUL: After months of speculation regarding Choi Sulli’s future as a member of f(x), SM Entertainment confirmed the K-pop idol’s departure from the girl group.
f(x) will continue on with the four remaining members who are said to be preparing for a comeback, while Sulli intends to focus on her career as an actress.
Prior to the announcement, Sulli had taken a break from f(x) activities and met with SM Entertainment to discuss her future career goals.
Korean media outlets announced Sulli’s departure from f(x) as early as June.
On Aug 7, Korean media reported that SM released a short statement regarding the news.
“After negotiating with Sulli,” said the notice, “who is currently taking a break, about her future activities, we have decided to respect her wishes, and she’ll be leaving f(x) and focusing on her acting.”
Sulli initially took an absence from f(x)’s ‘Red Light’ promotional activities in 2014, following rumours relating to her relationship with Dynamic Duo rapper Choiza (Choi Jae Ho). She returned to the Korean entertainment scene to promote her acting projects, but Sulli’s absence affected f(x) activities.
The group’s last album, ‘Red Light’ was released in July 2014 and the other members of f(x) - Krystal, Amber, Luna, and Victoria - have focused on their solo careers in the meantime.
Sulli’s departure from f(x) is the second high profile SM Entertainment related news in the past week. Earlier this week, SM Entertainment and former Girls’ Generation Jessica Jung announced the end of their business relationship.
Prior to debuting as a member of f(x) in 2009, Sulli was a child actor and appeared in South Korean dramas and films. She has since acted in multiple dramas and movies, including ‘To The Beautiful You’ and ‘Fashion King’. f(x) is expected to put out a new release in South Korea sometime this fall.
Meanwhile, Jessica Jung is reportedly planning on a solo debut in China.
According to the reports, Jessica wrapped up production on her album six months ago in Korea. The singer plans to release the album in China. However, the legal representative of the former Girls’ Generation star has spoken up regarding the reports. “The articles that claim that Jessica has finished recording an album are completely false,” stated the representative, adding, “She still has no plans related to an album. She went to a friend’s studio for fun, but there was absolutely no talk about an album.”
While there might be no album in the works, the representative went on to add that Jessica has numerous projects, which include working on her fashion brand and commercials. Of course, Jessica still plans to pursue a solo singing career in the future.
She still has no plans related to an album. She went to a friend’s studio for fun, but there was absolutely no talk about an album.
– Jessica Jung’s former representative