Yuri is reportedly preparing for a major turning point in her career as her exclusive contract with SM Entertainment nears its expiration next month.
According to industry reports released on July 4, Yuri is currently reviewing whether to renew her contract with SM Entertainment or move to a new agency.
The decision is drawing attention because the company has been her home since 2001, when she first joined as a trainee after winning a youth dance competition. If Yuri leaves, it would end a 25-year relationship with the agency that helped launch her successful music and acting career, AllKpop reported.
Reports say Yuri is carefully considering agencies that focus more strongly on actor management as she continues expanding her work in television and film. Even so, she is still expected to continue group activities with fellow Girls’ Generation members Hyoyeon and Sooyoung through the unit HyoRiSoo regardless of which company she joins.
Yuri Balances Acting Career and Independent Life in Jeju
Yuri debuted with Girls’ Generation in 2007 after training for six years under SM Entertainment.
As one of the group’s main members, she helped lead the global spread of K-pop with hit songs including “Into the New World,” “Gee,” “Genie,” “Oh!,” “The Boys,” “I GOT A BOY,” and “FOREVER 1.”
Alongside her music career, Yuri steadily built a strong acting resume. Since 2016, she has appeared in several dramas and films, including “Defendant,” “Good Job,” “Bossam: Steal the Fate,” and “Parole Examiner Lee Han Shin.”
Recently, Yuri also gained attention for sharing a more personal side of her life through a preview of Home Alone. According to Mediafine, the preview showed her independent life on Jeju Island, where she has reportedly been living for the past three years.
While the peaceful scenery highlighted Jeju’s natural beauty, Yuri also revealed the less glamorous side of island life. She explained that managing humidity is one of the biggest challenges, as mold and warped furniture can easily develop because of the climate.
The preview also showed her reacting nervously to bugs appearing inside the home, giving viewers a realistic look at everyday life on the island.