On May 21, Epik High members Tablo, Mithra and Tukutz released a new video on their official YouTube channel, in which they explored an old warehouse filled with items from their past.
The members explained that about 10 years ago, when they left YG Entertainment and became independent, they quickly put everything from their studio and office into a warehouse. Since they didn’t even remember what was in it, the video became a “treasure hunt” through their story.
At first, members found nostalgic items such as old products, fashion pieces from YG’s days, and diaries. But the biggest shock came when they discovered their exclusive contract from the beginning of their career. Epik High debuted in October 2003 after signing with Woollim Entertainment, which was still a new agency at the time. Their first album, Map of the Human Soul, marked the beginning of their long career.
However, Tablo’s reaction became serious the moment he saw the old Woollim contract. “Oh my God. This is crazy. Woollim, our former agency,” he said. Looking at the date, he added, “September 23, 2003. Due to this contract…” before expressing his frustration. Tablo then revealed why the document still troubled him so much. “I made ‘Fly,’ but I didn’t get a single penny. Because of this damn contract, we didn’t get a single penny in music revenue.” he said.
He also appeared to further call out the agency, adding that they were angry at the group for eating shrimp despite not paying them music revenue. Tukutz reacted with surprise, saying: “I got this? It’s crazy.” Tablo then joked bitterly: “This is the thing we should hang somewhere.” The moment quickly gained attention because “Fly” remains one of Epik High’s most iconic songs. The track played a major role in helping the group gain popularity, making Tablo’s statement even more shocking to fans.
What started as a nostalgic container video suddenly turned into a stark reminder of the harsh contracts artists faced during the early years of K-pop and Korean hip-hop. For longtime fans, the discovery was more than just a document. It was a painful look at how Epik High built its career despite difficult conditions — and why Tablo still remembers that contract with anger more than 20 years later.
Sources: Daum | stellar news
