In the Kpop world, 2016 was not great year for most well-know girl groups and this was because many have disbanded after promoting for a long time together. At least four bands have went on their separate ways and this truly broke the heart of the fans.
First, at the start of 2016, DSP Media formally announced the disbandment of its girl group KARA. The decision was made after the contracts of three of its members namely Goo Hara, Park Gyuri and Han Seung Yeon have expired on Jan. 15.
All three members did not renew their contracts so the youngest member, Heo Young Ji, who joined the group late, was left alone in the agency since she still have a few years left in her contract. Young Ji pursued a solo career following KARA's split who promoted as a team for nine years.
In June 2016, fans were saddened after it was confirmed that 4Minute is breaking up after seven years. Just like KARA, three members have left Cube Entertainment while the fourth member, Hyuna, decided to stay and renewed her contract for another term, Newsen reported.
Third, Rainbow followed suit and dissolved their team in October 2016. The girl group had seven members and everyone left their agency. Rainbow was the second team to disband under DSP Media last year and they were together for seven years.
Finally, fans around the world were shocked when YG Entertainment suddenly announced that 2NE1 is halting their activities as the group disbands. The members' contracts expired in May but Dara, CL and Park Bom stayed in the company.
Minzy left to go solo and the remaining members were supposed to release a new album. However, instead of announcing the date of the album's release, YG stated that 2NE1 members has officially parted ways in November. Billboard noted that CL and Dara will continue to be managed by YG Entertainment.