On March 5, reports revealed that SHINee’s Taemin would be leaving SM Entertainment and signing an exclusive contract with Big Planet Made. Taemin, who debuted with SHINee in 2008 as the youngest member, has spent 16 years with SM Entertainment, undergoing several contract renewals.
As his exclusive contract with SM Entertainment nears its end, it is anticipated that Taemin will join Big Planet Made by the end of this month. However, his group activities with SHINee will persist under SM.
Sports Seoul reported on March 5 that Baekhyun’s counsel influenced Taemin’s decision to switch agencies. Baekhyun, who previously departed from SM, offered guidance to Taemin, his close friend. An industry insider revealed, “Taemin chose to move to Big Planet Made under the influence of Baekhyun, who has always been a close friend.”
This move follows Baekhyun’s departure from SM to establish the agency I&B100, where he enlisted fellow EXO members Chen and Xiumin. Baekhyun sought advice from MC Mong, a close friend and senior in the music industry, during this transition.
Big Planet Made previously had ties with MC Mong, who served as an executive within the company.
At present, Big Planet Made is home to artists such as Ha Sung Woon from Wanna One, Huh Gak, Lee Mu Jin, Ren from NU’EST, and rapper BE’O.