Los Angeles, CA — In a significant legal action, Tracey Madder, a legal guardian, filed a lawsuit in Los Angeles County Court against JYP USA Inc., the American division of the influential K-pop production company JYP Entertainment. The suit, initiated on behalf of 17-year-old K.M., known by her stage name KG or KG Crown, accuses the company of child labor exploitation, abuse, and unfair business practices. KG made headlines as part of the girl group VCHA, which was formulated through JYP Entertainment and Republic Records partnership.
The complaint detailed distressing allegations including physical, emotional, and mental abuse endured by the group members. It claimed the young artists were subjected to harsh conditions, such as extended work hours without compensation, restricted access to food and water, and confusing contract terms. The lawsuit also highlighted a troubling incident where a member’s suicide attempt was allegedly poorly handled by the company’s staff, raising serious health and safety concerns.
On the heels of these allegations, KG announced through an Instagram post that she had decided to terminate her contract and leave VCHA, a decision she stated was made back in May. She cited the mistreatment she faced and her concern over the environment’s impact on her mental health and artistic freedom as key reasons for her exit. KG expressed distress over the oppressive conditions that she said were leading to severe mental health struggles among the group’s members.
Jeremiah D. Graham of JD Graham Legal, representing KG, emphasized the lawsuit’s aim to challenge the alleged control JYP USA Inc. held over KG’s career, including threats of damages for public communication by KG. The legal team is pushing for monetary and injunctive relief under California’s laws protecting minors in the entertainment industry.
KG’s participation in VCHA began after being selected through the A2K reality show — a talent search across the U.S. to form a K-pop influenced girl group. The 22-episode series ended with her as one of the six final members, each hand-picked by JYP Entertainment’s founder, J.Y. Park, for their vocal, dance, and performative abilities. Since their debut, VCHA had been relatively active in the K-pop scene, releasing music and performing internationally until recent months.
Despite these emerging talents and initial success, JYP USA has not publicly commented on the allegations. Their silence comes even as the VCHA’s operational activities appear to be on hold, indicated by the unexplained cancellation of their upcoming performance at a significant music festival.
The legal and moral questions the lawsuit raises are intensified by reports of heavy financial burdens placed on the young performers. Unpaid labor claims were among the troubling issues, with allegations pointing to wages far below California’s minimum wage despite exhaustive work schedules.
This ongoing case highlights the complex and often harsh realities of the entertainment industry, particularly within sectors like K-pop, known for its rigorous training and lifestyle demands. Fans of KG and VCHA have taken to social media using supportive hashtags, reflecting a growing concern over artist welfare in high-pressure entertainment environments.
This is a developing story. Any concerns or requests for article corrections or retraction can be sent to [email protected]. Please note, the above content and reported statements are automatically generated and may contain inaccuracies.