His fans are actually celebrating.
1 hour ago
After nearly a decade under the same agency and multiple group debuts, Lee Hangyul, better known as Hangyul of BAE173, is officially closing another chapter in his career.
Popular Boy Group Member Leaves Company After 10 Years
On February 28, 2026 (KST), his longtime agency, PocketDol Studio, confirmed that Hangyul would be parting ways with the company after nearly 10 years. The announcement effectively marks his departure from BAE173, the third K-Pop group he has promoted with during his career.
[NOTICE] BAE173 한결 전속계약 종료 안내 pic.twitter.com/d0Tk2Gk4kL
— BAE173 (@BAE173_official) February 28, 2026
Hello.
This is PocketDol Studio.
First, we would like to express our sincere gratitude to the fans who have always loved BAE173.
As of February 28, BAE173 member Hangyul’s exclusive contract will come to an end. After long and in-depth discussions with Hangyul regarding his future activities, we mutually agreed to conclude his exclusive contract.
Since 2016, Hangyul has shown endless passion and talent as an artist under our company for approximately 10 years, receiving much love. We would like to express our deep gratitude for his hard work during that time, and we sincerely support his future endeavors.
We ask for your warm interest and support for Hangyul as he embarks on a new beginning.
Thank you.
— PocketDol Studio
Following the news, Hangyul, too, shared a heartfelt message via his social media, expressing gratitude for his time with the company and the group.
“Hello, this is Lee Hangyul.
I spent 10 years with one company, going through so many seasons together.
Looking back, that time was never a path I walked alone. So today, I want to express my gratitude one by one to the people who come to mind first.
First, to the fans.
Thank you for holding me up whenever I wavered and for being the reason I could shine the brightest on stage. Your support was my pride, my confidence, and the strength that helped me stand up again.
Because you were there, I was able to endure these 10 years. I sincerely thank you.
And to our members.
The six years we spent together were not short at all. At first, we were awkward with each other, but before we knew it, we had become the people who knew each other best. Thank you for sharing joy and pressure, laughter and tears, right by my side. The moments when we understood each other without words, and the times you quietly stayed beside me when things were hard — because of that, I was never lonely.
I felt secure because of you, and I relied on you so much. Truly, thank you.
To the staff at the company as well, I extend my deep gratitude.
From my trainee days until now, thank you for believing in me and giving me opportunities, guiding me strictly at times and warmly at others. Without your choices and efforts, I would not be who I am today.
And to my parents.
I know you worried and prayed for me more than anyone, even from places where I couldn’t see. Thank you for recognizing when I was struggling even without me saying it, and for always being on my side.
The biggest reason I was able to stand up again was because of you.
Although our 10-year journey comes to an end on February 28, this time was the most precious lesson and gift in my life. So that I won’t disappoint everyone who walked with me, I will move forward becoming stronger and deeper as a person.
Thank you sincerely for being with me for these 10 years. I would be grateful if you continue to watch over my future activities and the new sides of me I will show, with warm hearts and anticipation.”
— Lee Hangyul
Unsurprisingly, fan response has been overwhelmingly supportive.
Many pointed out that Hangyul has now experienced three group disbandments or departures throughout his career—a difficult reality in the K-pop industry.
Lee Hangyul Describes The Pain Of Having To Debut 4 Times
Yet rather than frustration, much of the online reaction has centered on encouragement and even celebration of being “set free” from an agency that has been deemed unhelpful in promoting him. Supporters hope this next chapter will finally offer him stability and long-term success.
| theqoo
- Finally leaving Kwang Soo, huh? You’ll do even better. Hwaiting!
- I hope Hangyul’s future is filled with only good things.
- Hangyul, you worked so hard. Congratulations!
- Congratulations.
- I’m so relieved you left PocketDol. Congrats.
- Let’s do acting!
- You worked so hard. I’m cheering for you to do even, even better!!
- You’ve been through so much… I hope you find a good place and finally get your moment to shine.
- Hangyul, you really worked so hard. I’m supporting you.
- You truly worked so hard, I hope you find a good agency and show your face often.
- Hangyul, you worked hard. Whatever you do, you’ll succeed!
Some fans are already speculating about potential solo activities, acting opportunities, or even another musical re-debut under a new agency. Regardless of the direction he chooses, one sentiment is clear: people are rooting for him!
Read more about Hangyul here:
The Story Of A K-Pop Idol Who Was Abandoned At Birth, Had Multiple Failed Debuts, Yet Still Pushes On To Pursue His Dreams