SHINee's Onew, Taemin bid farewell to SM Entertainment after 16 years

SHINee’s Onew and Taemin have decided part ways with SM Entertainment after 16 years.

As per a statement from Onew, the singer will no longer renew his contract, which will end in 2024, with the agency and is now looking to explore a diverse career path. 

"We are currently exploring various possibilities for our future endeavors," the statement read.

Taemin, however, has not broken his silence over the major career move.

Notably, his exclusive contract is to end in March 2024. 

Local media highlighted that the star is reportedly looking forward to future prospects as a soloist, with the exception of conducting group activities with SHINee under SM Entertainment only.

According to reports, Taemin all set to join BPM Entertainment, an umbrella house for artists who want to embark on their solo endeavors while restricting group commitments with their original agencies.

Despite Taemin and Onew's departure, the duo hinted that they would collaborate in future group activities with its remaining members Minho and Key.

For the unversed, SHINee quickly gained popularity in the South Korean music scene. 

It originally comprised of members Onew, Jonghyun, Key, Minho, and Taemin.