Yuri is reportedly gearing up for a major turning point in her career as her exclusive contract with SM Entertainment nears its end next month.
According to industry reports released on July 4, Yuri is currently considering whether to renew her contract with SM Entertainment or move to a new agency.
The decision draws attention because the company has been his home since 2001, when he first joined as an apprentice after winning a youth dance competition. If Yuri leaves, it would end a 25-year relationship with the agency that helped launch her successful music and acting career, AllKpop reported.
Reports say Yuri is carefully considering agencies that focus more on managing actors as he continues to expand his work into television and film. Even so, she is expected to continue group activities with fellow Girls’ Generation members Hyoyeon and Sooyoung through the unit HyoRiSoo, regardless of which company she joins.
Yuri balances his acting career and independent life in Jeju
Yuri debuted with Girls’ Generation in 2007 after training for six years with SM Entertainment.
As one of the group’s core members, he helped lead the global spread of K-pop with hit songs including “Into the New World”, “Gee”, “Genie”, “Oh!”, “The Boys”, “I GOT A BOY” and “FOREVER 1”.
In addition to her musical career, Yuri has steadily built an excellent resume as an actress. Since 2016, she has appeared in several dramas and films, including “Defendant”, “Good Job”, “Bossam: Steal the Fate” and “Word Examiner Lee Han Shin”.
Recently, Yuri also gained attention for sharing a more personal side of her life through a preview of Home Alone. According to Mediafine, the preview showed her independent life on Jeju Island, where she has reportedly been living for the past three years.
While the peaceful scenery highlighted Jeju’s natural beauty, Yuri also revealed the less glamorous side of island life. He explained that managing humidity is one of the biggest challenges, as mold and warped furniture can easily develop due to the climate.
The preview also showed her nervous reaction to insects appearing inside the house, giving viewers a realistic look at daily life on the island.
