K-pop girl group IZ*ONE to disband two-and-a-half years after debut

On Mar 10, the news of K-pop girl group IZ*ONE’s disbandment was confirmed in an official statement released by Off the Record and Swing Entertainment. 

IZ*ONE will be disbanding in April after promoting together for two-and-a-half years since their debut date.

Even though there was a potential contract renewal for the members back in January, it was not agreed upon due to a disagreement between the multiple management companies. 

Debuting in October 2018, IZ*ONE is a temporary group made up of 12 Korean and Japanese trainees from a South Korean idol survival show Produce 48. 

Over the course of their contract, they released a full-length studio album and four mini-albums in Korean, along with several Japanese-language projects.

As one of the most popular 4th generation girl groups in the K-pop industry, the news on IZ*ONE’s disbandment left their fans – known as WIZ*ONEs –  devastated and heartbroken. 

To bid farewell to WIZ*ONEs and thank them, IZ*ONE held their last online farewell concert ONE, THE STORY on Mar 13 and 14. 

The members gave one another surprise video letters and wrapped up the concert with words of gratitude towards their fandom, who had continuously supported them throughout their journey as IZ*ONE.

Following IZ*ONE’s disbandment, Mnet, owned by entertainment and mass media company CJ E&M, confirmed that the members will continue their careers as artists.

Japanese member Miyawaki Sakura is also rumoured to be signing with BigHit entertainment, which manages two other renowned groups BTS and TXT.