Kim Junsu, a former member of K-pop group TVXQ, recently shared his struggles following his departure from SM Entertainment on the May 5 episode of Channel A’s Best Friends Documentary: Table for 4. The singer faced a tough legal battle that left him feeling like a criminal. His emotional revelations have touched fans worldwide. Junsu credits musicals for helping him find peace and purpose. This news highlights his resilience and growth as an artist.
The legal dispute began in July 2009 when Junsu, along with bandmates Jaejoong and Yoochun, sued SM Entertainment. They challenged the unfair terms of their 13-year contracts. The trio argued that the contracts were too long and profit distribution was unjust. The lawsuit lasted over three years, ending in a mutual agreement in November 2012. Both sides agreed to part ways and not interfere with each other’s activities.
Junsu described the emotional toll of the legal battle. He felt isolated and misunderstood during this period. The public scrutiny was overwhelming, making him question his choices.
“For a while, I felt like a criminal, as if I had done something terribly wrong.”
“It was a dark time, and I struggled to find my place.”
The lawsuit had major consequences for Junsu and his bandmates, who formed the group JYJ in 2010. They faced significant barriers in the industry. Major South Korean TV networks, like KBS, avoided booking JYJ due to the ongoing legal issues. KBS stated they were waiting for the trial’s outcome to remain objective. This restriction limited JYJ’s appearances on music and variety shows for years.
Junsu found solace in musical theater, which became his creative outlet. His debut role as Wolfgang in the 2010 South Korean production of Mozart! was a turning point. The show sold out, and Junsu won Best Newcomer awards at multiple ceremonies. He described the experience as healing, especially the curtain call after his first performance.
“There was a curtain call once all the scenes were over; I recall crying then. Those were tears of joy.”
Musicals gave Junsu a new identity beyond his TVXQ days. He starred in productions like Tears of Heaven in 2011 and collaborated with composer Sylvester Levay for a concert in 2010. These projects allowed him to connect with fans and express himself freely. His stage name, XIA, became a symbol of his fresh start.
The legal battle also shed light on unfair practices in the K-pop industry. The lawsuit exposed “slave contracts,” which tied artists to long-term deals with little control. Junsu and his bandmates’ actions led to reforms. South Korea’s Fair Trade Commission introduced rules limiting entertainment contracts to seven years. This change helped future artists negotiate better terms.
Junsu’s time with TVXQ was intense and demanding. He debuted with the group in 2003 at age 17, quickly rising to fame. TVXQ became one of K-pop’s biggest acts, with hits like Mirotic and massive fanclubs in South Korea and Japan. However, the grueling schedule took a toll. Junsu often slept only two to three hours a day while traveling between countries.
“Back then, I was young, and I was living a life where I was hopping from one country to another with only two to three hours of sleep every day.”
“It was so hectic that I often needed to find out whether I was in Korea, Japan, China, or Taiwan.”
This exhausting lifestyle led Junsu to question his happiness. At 25, he realized he couldn’t continue under such conditions. He made the difficult decision to leave TVXQ, even if it meant giving up singing. His choice was driven by a need for personal fulfillment, not just financial gain.
“Back when I was that age, I questioned myself if I would be a happy man after the contract ended. That’s when I realized, ‘This is not right.’”
After leaving SM Entertainment, Junsu faced rumors and criticism. Some accused him of abandoning TVXQ for personal gain. He clarified that the lawsuit was against SM’s unfair practices, not his bandmates Yunho and Changmin, who remained with SM. Junsu expressed deep affection for TVXQ, saying the group’s name would always hold a special place in his heart.
“We were fighting a battle against our company (SM Entertainment) and their unlawful practices; it wasn’t that we wanted to throw away our title of ‘TVXQ’ or leave ‘TVXQ.’”
The split divided TVXQ’s massive fanbase, with 800,000 fans in South Korea’s Cassiopeia fanclub and 200,000 in Japan’s Bigeast. Fans were heartbroken, but many supported Junsu’s decision. Netizens praised his courage, with some calling the lawsuit a historic moment for K-pop. Others felt the split was inevitable due to SM’s strict control.
“It was his group for 5 years long. The 5 of them live 24/7 together for that years. They create memorie from teenagers to adult together.”
“Obviously a hater. Can’t he talk about the past like the two did when the 3 left?”
Junsu’s career thrived despite the challenges. He formed his own agency, Palm Tree Island, in November 2021, taking control of his future. His solo work under the name XIA gained popularity, and he continued to perform in concerts and musicals. In April 2024, Junsu made his first public TV appearance in 15 years on KBS’s The Return of Superman. This marked a significant moment, as SM’s influence had previously limited his TV exposure.
His friendship with rapper BewhY led to the TV appearance. Junsu joined BewhY on the show, showcasing his warm personality while interacting with BewhY’s daughter, Siha. Fans were thrilled to see him back on public television. The episode aired in late April 2024, drawing attention to his resilience.
Junsu’s reflections also touched on his past with SM Entertainment’s founder, Lee Soo Man. In a 2024 episode of Stars’ Top Recipe at Fun-Staurant, Junsu and Jaejoong discussed their TVXQ days. Jaejoong mentioned meeting Lee Soo Man years after the lawsuit, showing a forgiving attitude. Junsu’s reaction was short and sharp, hinting at lingering frustration.
“Kim Junsu is the type of guy who uses honorifics to objects when he can. LOL. His tone and manner in that reaction says a lot, it’s hilarious.”
“Show respect to a former boss who fcked me over for a decade and more? Absolutely not. I could never.”*
The emotional weight of Junsu’s journey resonates with fans. His performances, like the 2014 medley of TVXQ songs during his Japan tour, showed his connection to his past. He teared up while singing Begin and Proud, moving fans to tears. These moments highlight his love for music and his TVXQ legacy.
Junsu’s story is one of overcoming adversity. The legal battle tested his strength, but he emerged stronger. Musicals provided a space to heal and grow as an artist. His decision to prioritize happiness over fame inspired many. Fans continue to support his journey, celebrating his achievements.
The K-pop industry has changed since Junsu’s lawsuit. Artists now have more leverage to negotiate fair contracts. Junsu’s actions paved the way for these reforms, earning him respect. His focus on musicals and solo work shows his versatility. He remains a beloved figure in entertainment.
Junsu’s recent TV appearances signal a new chapter. He continues to engage fans through concerts and stage performances. His agency, Palm Tree Island, allows him to pursue projects on his terms. The singer’s honesty about his struggles connects with audiences. His story reminds fans of the human side of K-pop stardom.
Credits: Channel A’s Best Friends Documentary: Table for 4
