Yoo Jeongyeon [Baro Entertainment]
Yoo Jeongyeon [Baro Entertainment]

Jeongyeon of Twice is leaving JYP Entertainment to pursue a new chapter as actor Yoo Jeongyeon.

Baro Entertainment announced Monday that it had signed Yoo Jeongyeon to an exclusive contract, saying it was "sincerely delighted to form this precious bond with Yoo Jeongyeon, an artist of diverse charm and limitless potential." The agency is also home to her older sister, actor Kong Seung-yeon.

Yoo plans to expand her acting career alongside her ongoing group activities following the signing.

Baro Entertainment added that it "deeply resonated with Yoo Jeongyeon's sincere attitude toward acting," and pledged to be "a steadfast partner who will provide full support in every way — not only for her new challenge as an actor, but also to ensure her group activities continue smoothly, building on the global presence she has cultivated over her long career as an artist."

Other actors on Baro Entertainment's roster include Kong Seung-yeon, Jin Goo, Byeon Woo-seok, Park Jeong-woo, Lee Yu-mi, Lee Hong-nae, Lee Su-gyeong, Lee Chae-min and Kim Si-a.

Yoo debuted with Twice in 2015 and has built a wide global fanbase through her striking visuals, distinctive vocal color and consistent output. She has also shown her versatility beyond music, appearing on variety programs and working as an MC.

Yoo announced the move Monday on her personal Instagram account. "I am starting fresh in a new place after leaving JYP Entertainment, which has been with me since my teenage years," she wrote, adding, "Standing before Once as a member of Twice will always come first."


balme@heraldcorp.com