Ahn Jae-hyun Parts Ways With HB Entertainment After 12 Years, Eyes New Beginnings
Actor Ahn Jae-hyun is set to embark on a new chapter as he concludes his 12-year journey with HB Entertainment, the agency he has been with since his debut.
According to reports, Ahn Jae-hyun's exclusive contract with HB Entertainment is set to expire in early October, and he has decided not to renew. Both parties have mutually agreed to part ways amicably, and Ahn Jae-hyun is currently exploring new management options. Industry insiders suggest that Cube Entertainment is a potential destination.
Having debuted as a model in 2009, Ahn Jae-hyun first gained attention with a brief appearance on JTBC's 'Lee Soo-geun and Kim Byung-man's High Society' in 2011. He then solidified his acting career with a role in SBS's 'My Love from the Star.' Since then, he has showcased his versatility through numerous dramas and variety shows, particularly proving his comedic talent in tvN's 'New Journey to the West' and 'Kang's Kitchen.'
His career also faced a hiatus due to personal issues stemming from his divorce proceedings with Ku Hye-sun. However, after the legal matters were resolved, he returned to the entertainment scene, regaining his presence in both acting and variety programs. Recently, he has charmed audiences with his relatable persona on MBC's 'I Live Alone' and is continuing his ventures in the new ENA variety show, 'Where Do You Want to Go.'
While HB Entertainment is a prominent comprehensive entertainment company with a strong roster of actors and production lines, Ahn Jae-hyun's departure signifies more than just a contract expiration; it marks a personal 'reset.' The industry anticipates that he will leave personal difficulties behind and fully embrace the second act of his acting career.
Netizens have shown their support, with comments such as "I hope he finds his own path now," "The past is the past, may he shine even brighter," and "He's good at both acting and variety shows, so a second prime is likely." Some expressed anticipation, stating, "A change in agency can be a major turning point for an actor; I hope he finds a good match."
As Ahn Jae-hyun parts ways with his long-time agency of 12 years to pursue independence, all eyes are on whether this decision will herald a true new beginning.
Ahn Jae-hyun began his career as a model in 2009 before transitioning to acting with the drama 'My Love from the Star' in 2013. He has demonstrated his multifaceted talent through popular variety shows like 'New Journey to the West' and 'Kang's Kitchen.' More recently, his appearance on 'I Live Alone' has highlighted his down-to-earth personality.