NEW, Former Member of THE BOYZ, Signs with ONLY NEW ENTERTAINMENT
by Isabel Miller
Ex-THE BOYZ member NEW has signed an exclusive contract with one-person agency ONLY NEW ENTERTAINMENT as of September 28, 2026.
The announcement came from ONLY NEW ENTERTAINMENT’s official social media accounts at noon, alongside two sets of profile images of the artist. Both are minimalistic and emphasise the lighter and darker sides to NEW.
“NEW is an artist who not only possesses a distinct vocal tone and solid skills but can also showcase his own unique colour across various fields,” a statement from ONLY NEW ENTERTAINMENT reads. “We will work with him to find the right direction and provide active support so he can fully realise his potential.” Initial projects, including the intention for new music and performances as a solo, are also mentioned.
This announcement confirms that NEW intends to continue to work in the entertainment industry on a solo basis following his departure from THE BOYZ. In February, nine of the ten THE BOYZ members filed to terminate their exclusive contracts with ONE HUNDRED LABEL over unpaid settlements – but NEW did not. As the court sided with the members, THE BOYZ signed under 78 RECORDS as nine. NEW departed the group, and reportedly ONE HUNDRED LABEL, in August.
This venture marks his first as a solo artist, though he has been active throughout 2026 as an actor in musical theatre; NEW starred as Romeo in the Korean production of Romeo and Juliet between March and May. He already has a steady fanbase from both his time as a vocalist with THE BOYZ and his role in the production, which will boost any new endeavours especially in the initial stages of his solo career as he establishes a public identity.
NEW’s announcement promises future activities in the entertainment realm, though details are not yet confirmed. Under a new, one-person company, as suggested by the title “ONLY NEW,” he is likely to have greater freedom in the variety of projects he is part of. This may look like new music and live performances as a solo musician or a lean further into musical theatre and acting, a field commonly pursued by K-pop artists.
After a period of great uncertainty for THE BOYZ throughout this year – their most recent mini album, a;effect, coming out over a year ago in July 2025 – the announcement also acts as a form of closure. It confirms the paths of all ten members, looking into the future, and finally sees a move away from legal battles. Fans have been assured that they will still see all of their idols following their group hiatus, even if the circumstances are different as is the case for NEW.
Further details on NEW’s projects will be revealed by the company at a later date.