On January 28, 2026, Starship Entertainment released a comprehensive official statement to address mounting speculation surrounding IVE member Jang Won Young and her latest project, FOREVER:CHERRY.
The clarification comes after fans and industry observers noticed a new Instagram account for the project and discovered trademark applications filed under Jang Won Young’s legal name.
These findings led many to believe that the idol was preparing to launch her own independent business or fashion label, separate from her activities with IVE.
However, the agency has moved quickly to debunk these rumors and explain the strategic reasoning behind the trademark filings.
Clarifying the Project’s Nature
Starship Entertainment explicitly stated that FOREVER:CHERRY is not a personal business venture owned or operated by Jang Won Young. Instead, they characterized it as a brand collaboration project.
Also Read: Legal Battle Over Cyber Defamation, Jang Won Young vs. ‘Sojang’
While the project is closely tied to her individual brand and aesthetic, it remains a professional partnership rather than an independent commercial enterprise.
This distinction is crucial for fans and investors alike, as it clarifies that Jang Won Young remains fully integrated with Starship Entertainment’s management and her commitments to her group, IVE.
The Strategy Behind Trademark Registration
One of the primary drivers of the “personal business” rumor was the discovery of trademark registrations filed in Jang Won Young’s name rather than the agency’s.
Starship Entertainment provided a detailed explanation for this unusual move.
They noted that because the name and concept of FOREVER:CHERRY are so deeply intertwined with the artist’s unique identity, image, and personal “value,” the decision was made to register the trademark under her name to provide long-term protection.
The agency’s rationale includes several key points:
- Prevention of Misuse: By securing the trademark, they aim to prevent third parties from indiscriminately using her image or the brand name for commercial gain once the project officially concludes.
- Preemptive Protection: The trademark applications cover a broad scope of business sectors. This is a defensive strategy designed to ensure that no unauthorized entities can exploit the artist’s likeness in various markets.
- Preserving Artist Value: Starship emphasized that this action was taken through an agreement with the brand partner to prioritize the artist’s rights and interests, ensuring that her “unique value” remains under her control.
Impact on Jang Won Young’s Career
This clarification reinforces Jang Won Young’s status as a top-tier brand ambassador and a “blue-chip” in the advertising world.
As a member of IVE, she has consistently topped brand reputation rankings, and FOREVER:CHERRY appears to be a sophisticated extension of her influence.
By taking these legal steps, Starship Entertainment is signaling a more protective stance toward their artists’ intellectual property, which is becoming increasingly important in the modern K-pop industry where an idol’s individual brand can be as powerful as their music career.
Future Outlook
The agency concluded their statement by reaffirming their commitment to protecting their artists’ rights and interests.
For fans, this means that while FOREVER:CHERRY will likely result in exciting new content or products, it does not signify a departure from her current path.
Also Read: Jang Won Young of IVE Secures Victory in 100 Million Won Lawsuit against YouTuber Sojang
As IVE continues to prepare for their own upcoming projects, including their “REVIVE+” comeback, Jang Won Young will continue to balance her high-profile collaborations with her group activities.
The “FOREVER:CHERRY” project stands as a testament to her massive cultural impact, managed carefully to ensure her professional longevity and brand integrity.
