On August 23, TS Entertainment announced that B.A.P’s longtime leader and main rapper, Bang Yongguk, did not renew his contract and has left the group.
The official statement from TS Entertainment reads,
“Hello. This is TS Entertainment.
Since joining TS Entertainment on August 12, 2011, B.A.P’s Bang Yongguk’s contract has officially ended on August 19, 2018.
After discussing in length with Bang Yongguk, himself, and the other members, we have decided to respect Bang Yongguk’s wishes and not renew his contract. We want to express our gratitude to Bang Yongguk for the time spent with TS, and we genuinely wish the best for his future endeavors.
Due to the ending of his contract, B.A.P will continue with Himchan, Daehyun, Youngjae, and Zelo as a 5 member group. B.A.P will continue to carry out scheduled promotions without fail.
Please continue to show love and support for B.A.P in the future.
Thank you.”