YG Entertainment

YG Entertainment was founded in 1996 by Yang Hyun-suk, a former member of the influential boy group Seo Taiji and Boys, which is credited with pioneering modern Korean pop music. The company initially operated as a hip-hop label, signing artists such as Jinusean and 1TYM, and later expanded into K-pop with acts like Big Bang and 2NE1.

YG Entertainment has managed some of the most successful acts in K-pop history. Notable groups include Big Bang, 2NE1, Winner, iKON, and BLACKPINK, the latter becoming a global phenomenon with record-breaking music videos and Billboard chart success. Solo artists under the label have included PSY, whose "Gangnam Style" became a viral hit, and Lee Hi.²

YG Entertainment is known for its distinctive "YG style" — a blend of hip-hop, R&B, and electronic music, often characterized by strong visual aesthetics and a focus on artist individuality. The company has also expanded into acting management, cosmetics (Moonshot), and a subsidiary label, The Black Label, which houses artists like Taeyang and Jeon Somi.³

YG Entertainment has faced legal and public relations issues, including a 2019 investigation into allegations of drug use and bribery involving its founder, leading to Yang Hyun-suk's resignation. The company has also been criticized for its treatment of artists and for the long hiatuses of some groups.

Beyond its mainstream success, YG Entertainment has several lesser-known facets. The company's name "YG" is said to stand for "Yang Goon," a nickname for founder Yang Hyun-suk.⁴ It also operates a subsidiary called YG Plus, which handles distribution and has invested in tech ventures. In 2020, YG launched a joint venture with Chinese company Tencent to expand into the Chinese market. Additionally, YG has a training system that includes a rigorous audition process, and it has produced survival shows like "MIXNINE" and "YG Treasure Box" to select new talent.⁵

Big Three

The three largest K-pop entertainment companies in South Korea: SM, JYP, and YG.

K-pop

Korean pop music, a genre that incorporates a wide range of musical styles and is known for its choreography and visual elements.

Hip-hop label

A record label that specializes in hip-hop music and culture.