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RBW (company)
RBW (company)
RBW (company)
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RBW (Korean: 알비더블유; an acronym for Rainbow Bridge World) is a South Korean entertainment company founded by Kim Jin-woo (김진우) and Kim Do-hoon (김도훈).[3][4] The company has multiple subsidiaries, including DSP Media, WM Entertainment, Urban Works Media, and the IP management company Contents X.[5]

Key Information

One of the leading entertainment companies in South Korea, RBW operates as a record label, talent agency, music production company, event management company, concert production company, and music publishing house. In addition, the company operates various subsidiary ventures and divisions worldwide.[6][7]

Including all its subsidiary labels, RBW is home to many notable artists under the agency such as the groups Mamamoo, KARA, B1A4, Oh My Girl, KARD, ONF, Oneus, Onewe, Purple Kiss, Young Posse and the soloist Chaeyeon.

History

[edit]

2010–2014: Early Formation and Debut of Mamamoo

[edit]

Kim Jin-woo originally was the representative director of Cube Entertainment's Music Cube. Kim Jin-woo was in charge of the practice room rental business and then expanded his business with opening AN Bridge, Rainbow Bridge Academy and ENB Academy Practical Music Academy, which integrated under the name Modern & Bridge. On March 5, 2010, he later established the first OEM company, Rainbow Bridge Agency, which operates to train students who are not trainees with similar process as the regular entertainment company, such as vocal, dance, acting, language, etc.

In August 2011, Hwang Sung-jin (former Music Cube producer) and Kim Do-hoon (former Music Cube director) joined Kim Jin-woo's Modern & Bridge and took representative and director positions.

In March 2012, Kim Do-hoon joined corporation with Rainbow Bridge Agency's established music label, WA Entertainment. On August 16, WA Entertainment along with Brand New Music debuted Hip hop trio Phantom.[8] In December 2012, Hip hop duo Geeks signed with WA Entertainment.[9][10]

On June 18, 2014, WA Entertainment debuted its first girl group Mamamoo.[11] They would go on to become the label's first successful artist and most profitable group. Beyond achieving commercial success both domestically and overseas as a group, all four members of Mamamoo have established themselves as solo artists in the K-pop industry.[12]

Mamamoo in 2016. Renowned for their vocal prowess, they have become one of the leading South Korean girl groups; receiving numerous accolades and worldwide success, most notably with "HIP" (2019) becoming a number-one hit on the Billboard World Digital Song Sales chart.[13]

In August, WA Entertainment debuted composer Esna as a solo singer.[14] In September 2014, WA Entertainment along with TSN Entertainment debuted brother duo OBROJECT.[15]

2015–2020: Merger into RBW, Subsidiaries & Debut of Oneus and Onewe

[edit]

In March 2015, WA Entertainment merged with Rainbow Bridge Agency to create an independent label RBW (acronym for Rainbow Bridge World).[16] In September 2015, Yangpa signed with RBW.[17] In December 2015, rapper Basick and Big Tray signed with RBW.[18]

In June 2016, Monday Kiz signed with RBW.[19] On July 12, 2016, RBW debuted vocal group Vromance.[20]

On June 9, 2017, RBW confirmed that rock band M.A.S 0094 joined the label, as well as the changing of the band name to MAS (acronym for Make A Sound).[21]

In May 2018, Jinju, the winner of Vietnam's Hidden Singer joined RBW as its first artist in Vietnam.[22] In February 2020, RBW Vietnam debuted D1verse, the first Vietnamese musical group under a Korean label.[23]

On January 9, 2019, RBW debuted the six-member boy group Oneus.[24] On May 13, boy band MAS made its re-debut as Onewe.[25] Onewe and Oneus are considered to be brother groups, and share a history of collaborations, including a pre-debut single "Last Song" featuring all eleven members together. They also share real twin brothers, one in each group; Xion (the youngest in Oneus) and Dongmyeong (the keyboardist and lead vocal in Onewe).

Oneus in 2019. They are known for their bold, theatrical concepts and storylines. The use of literature, symbolism, variation of colors and hues stands out in the intricate planning and execution of each of their releases.[26]
Onewe in 2019. As a self-producing band, they are known for having strong creative control over their music. All members contribute to the creation of their albums, from writing to composing to arranging their songs.[27][28]

2021–2022: Public Listing, Acquisitions & Wheein's Departure

[edit]

On March 15, 2021, RBW debuted the 7-member girl group Purple Kiss.[29] On April 7, it was announced that RBW purchased the 70% shares of WM Entertainment, which houses idol groups such as B1A4 and Oh My Girl. They will be merged into RBW as a subsidiary.[30]

Oh My Girl in 2021. Their signature is ethereal and bubbly concepts, a style which they have kept consistent throughout their over eight-year career. They achieved widespread domestic recognition after a successful stint on Mnet reality competition series Queendom.[31]

On June 11, RBW issued a statement confirming that Wheein would not renew her exclusive contract with the agency, although she will continue to promote with Mamamoo for group activities as she has signed an expanded agreement to participate in some activities, including albums and concerts, until December 2023.[32] On November 22, RBW began public offering on KOSDAQ.[33]

On January 26, 2022, it was announced that RBW purchased the 39.1% shares of DSP Media, which houses idol groups such as Kard and Mirae. They will be merged into RBW as a subsidiary. Kim Jin-woo, founder and CEO of RBW, has also become a CEO of DSP Media.[34] On December 14, it was announced that DSP Media has merged with Goodfellas Entertainment on December 1, obtaining all exclusive rights to Goodfellas' artists and intellectual property.[35]

KARD in 2019. One of the most well-known co-ed groups in K-pop, where mixed-gender acts are a rarity. With a discography that largely focuses on reggaetón, contemporary house and dancehall vibes, they appeal to the international market, particularly South America.[36]

On September 19, 2022, it was announced that Kara would be releasing an album under RBW to commemorate the 15th anniversary of their debut in November, with Nicole and Jiyoung rejoining the group. The group was originally formed by DSP Media, which RBW had acquired earlier in the year. Their extended play, titled Move Again, was released on November 29, with its first reveal taking place at the 2022 MAMA Awards in Japan.[37]

KARA in 2022. Having debuted in 2007, they are regarded as an iconic South Korean girl group of the second generation of K-pop. Since their disbandment in 2016, they had been on hiatus as a group until their reunion in 2022.[38]

On December 29, it was announced that RBW acquired 50 percent of Urban Works Media for ₩10 billion ($7.88 million) to become the largest shareholder of the label. The deal was signed on January 2, 2023, and the payment will be made in full by the first half of 2023.[39]

2023–present: Recent developments

[edit]

On June 1, 2023, it was announced that DSP will be taking over the actor management business of Jikim Entertainment and Urban Works Media, Jikim's former CEO Kim Jin-il will be leading the actor's department at DSP.[40]

RBW took over music production for soloist Lee Chae-yeon's second extended play, Over the Moon which was released on April 12, 2023.[41] Though reception was initially lukewarm, the album's lead single "Knock" became a sleeper hit thanks to its popularity in TikTok challenges and peaked at 25 on Melon's real-time Top 100 Chart.[42]

Soloist Chaeyeon in 2018. A former member of the South Korean–Japanese girl group Iz*One, .

In June 2023, it was reported that Contents X, a subsidiary established by RBW in 2019, was responsible for the global marketing for the unexpected hit song "Cupid" by South Korean girl group Fifty Fifty which went viral worldwide and charted on the Billboard Hot 100 and the UK Singles Chart.[43] Described as a "comprehensive content IP business solution company", Contents X recently attracted a total of ₩13 billion in funding from leading investors including the Industrial Bank of Korea. In line with the growth of K-pop, it has established a global comprehensive marketing system that encompasses digital platforms, outdoor media, and media PR at home and abroad, and is already collaborating with dozens of leading entertainment companies in Korea to grow its presence in the industry.[44] It was later revealed in RBW's 2023 Annual General Meeting of Shareholders Report that Contents X is handling the marketing for several other leading K-pop groups from different labels such as (G)I-DLE, STAYC and BoyNextDoor.

On July 16, 2023, RBW held its first large-scale family concert titled RBW 2023 SUMMER FESTIVAL: Over the Rainbow which featured various artists from their roster including Mamamoo+, B1A4, Oh My Girl, ONF, Oneus, Chaeyeon and many more. Held at a sold-out SK Olympic Handball Gymnasium in Olympic Park, Seoul, the four-hour concert encompassed a wide range of hit songs from each artist as well as special collaboration stages. A Japanese edition of RBW 2023 SUMMER FESTIVAL: Over the Rainbow is scheduled to take place over two days at the Tokyo Garden Theater from August 19–20, the following month.[45]

Subsidiaries

[edit]

Sub-labels

[edit]

Cloud R

[edit]

On May 27, 2016, RBW joint cooperation with Lee Seong-yeon established the independent sub-label.[46][47] It was house to M.A.S 0094, a 5-member rock band managed by Modern Music. Its management was transferred to RBW in 2017 and they redebuted as Onewe in 2019 under the main label.

All Right Music

[edit]

All Right Music is an independent Hip hop label headed by rapper Basick and RBW producer Im Sang-hyuk.[48] Established in March 2017, the label was set up by RBW to focus on the hip hop scene. It was introduced their first artist: Big Tray, Marvel J and B.O.[49]

RBW Vietnam

[edit]

In 2016, RBW established a sub agency in Vietnam, joint-ventured with Naver, for future auditions and artist development in the region. The label introduced its first artist Jin Ju, a Korean student who won on the Vietnamese singing competition program Masked Singer, in 2018 with her debut single "Petal", released in both Korean and Vietnamese.

RBW launched the Vietnamese boy band D1Verse in February 2020. The group was formed by an all-Vietnamese cast and it was the first vocal group in Vietnam to be produced and managed by a K-pop label.

RBW Japan

[edit]

In 2017, RBW established a sub agency in Japan for future auditions and artist development in the region. RBW announced Mamamoo's Japan debut in October 2018, working with local label Victor Entertainment as its music distributor, followed by Oneus and Onewe in 2019, distributed by Kiss Entertainment and Gem records respectively.

In 2023, the agency started to represent non-exclusive Korean artists for their Japan activities. I.e. CSR, actor Gong Yoo and Joo Won. In the same year, the agency obtained a 9-story property in Shinjuku, Tokyo as the new office.

Modern RBW

[edit]

RBW producer Kim Hyunkyu and Modern K Music Academy combined to form a new sub-label "Modern RBW" which aims to promote aspiring artists to try get recognised with a projects series release of singles.[50]

WM Entertainment

[edit]

On April 7, 2021, RBW announced that they have acquired WM Entertainment, the agency of groups Oh My Girl, B1A4, ONF and soloist Lee Chae-yeon. The two companies aim to work on creating synergy through close cooperation. With this acquisition, WM Entertainment will operate as an independent label of RBW and maintain its current management.

DSP Media

[edit]

In January 2022, RBW announced that they have acquired the management rights of DSP Media, the agency of groups Kard and Mirae. The two companies aim to work on creating synergy through close cooperation. With this acquisition, DSP Media will operate as an independent label of RBW and maintain its current management.

In December 2022, DSP Media announced that they have merged with Goodfellas Entertainment. All exclusive artists under Goodfellas will be transferred to DSP and the CEO will be joining the label as the executive producer.

In June 2023, DSP Media announced that they are taking over the actor management business of Jikim Entertainment and Urban Works Media, Jikim's former CEO Kim Jin-il will be leading the actor's department at DSP.

Urban Works Media

[edit]

On December 29, 2022, RBW announced that they acquired 50 percent of Urban Works for ₩10 billion ($7.88 million) to become the largest shareholder of the label. The deal was signed on January 2, 2023, and the payment will be made in full by the first half of 2023.[39]

In June 2023, it was announced that DSP Media will be taking over the management of Urban Works' artists.[40]

In September, 2024, RBW sold 50 percent of its stake in Urban Works Media, relinquishing the company from their consolidated subsidiaries.[51][52]

Exclusive artists

[edit]

RBW

[edit]

Source:[53]

WM Entertainment

[edit]

DSP Media

[edit]

Source:[56]

Studio artists

[edit]

RBW

[edit]

Session musicians

[edit]
  • Rb-inj - string session, co-founded with I.N.J Orchestra.[58]
  • Onewe - also active as session musicians. [note 2]

Record producers & songwriters

[edit]

Source:[59]

  • Kim Do-hoon (김도훈) - Chief Executive Producer & co-CEO. Main Producer of Mamamoo.
  • Lee Sang-ho (이상호) - Director. Main Producer of Oneus, member of producing crew Masked Knights.
  • Hwang Sung-jin (황성진) - Director. Music Cube producer.
  • Kim Hyun-kyu (김형규) - Director. Also CEO of Modern K Practical Music Academy.
  • Kwon Suk-hong (권석홍) - Director. Music Director of Rb-inj.
  • Song Jun-ho (송준호) - Principal of Rainbow Bridge Music Academy, Director of WM Entertainment.
  • Seo Yong-bae (서용배) - Member of Masked Knights and producing duo Igi-yongbae.
  • Choi Gap-won (최갑원)
  • Choi Yong-chan (최용찬) - Also active as indie singer-songwriter lunCHbox.
  • Yun Young-jun (윤영준)
  • Im Sang-hyuck (임상혁) - A.k.a. Leemssang. President of All Right Music, member of producing crew Firebat
  • Jeon Da-woon (전다운) - Main Producer of Onewe, member of Firebat
  • Kim Ki-hyun (김기현) - A.k.a. Adam H. Evans or Cosmic Sound.
  • Lee Hoo-Sang (이후상)
  • Park Ji-young (박지영) - A.k.a. Davve, Main Producer of Purple Kiss.
  • Yoo Joo-yi (유주이) - A.k.a. Cosmic Girl, singer-songwriter and former Rania member.

DSP Media

[edit]
  • Min Myeong-gi (민명기) - Chief Producer. Former CEO of Goodfellas Entertainment.
  • Lee Seok-joo (이석주) - Former Goodfellas Entertainment producer.
  • Lee Yul-i (이율이) - Former Goodfellas Entertainment composer.

Awards

[edit]

2011

[edit]
  • 1st Korean Music Copyright Awards - Composer in Rock category [CEO Kim Do Hoon, Lee Sang Ho]

2014

[edit]
  • 6th MelOn Music Awards - Best Songwriter [CEO Kim Do Hoon]
  • 4th Gaon Chart KPop Awards - Composer of the Year [CEO Kim Do Hoon]

2015

[edit]
  • 1st KOMCA Awards - Grand Prize in Composition, Popular Music [CEO Kim Do Hoon]
  • Korean Ministry of Commerce, Industry & Energy - Young Entrepreneur [CEO Kim Jin Woo]
  • Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency - Commissioner's Commendation for Appreciation [CEO Kim Jin Woo]

2016

[edit]
  • Korea Business Management Awards - Best in Popular Culture [CEO Kim Jin Woo]

2017

[edit]
  • 3rd KOMCA Awards - Grand Prize in Composition, Popular Music [CEO Kim Do Hoon]
  • 1st Soribada Best K-Music Awards - Best Producer [Seo Yong Bae and Iggy]
  • Korea Entertainment Producers Association - Organizer of the Year [CEO Kim Jin Woo]

2018

[edit]
  • 2nd Soribada Best K-Music Awards - Best Producer [CEO Kim Do Hoon]
  • Vietnam V LIVE 2017 - Best Program Award [CEO Kim Jin Woo]

2019

[edit]
  • Korean Ministry of Culture, Sport, and Tourism - Minister's Prize [CEO Kim Jin Woo]

2020

[edit]
  • 17th Korea Startup Award - Minister of Small and Medium Venture Business Award [CEO Kim Jin Woo]
  • 4th Soribada Best K-Music Awards - Best Producer [CEO Kim Do Hoon]

Former artists

[edit]

RBW

[edit]

DSP Media

[edit]
  • April (2015–2022, disbanded)
    • Somin (2015)
    • Hyunjoo (2015–2016)
    • Chaewon (2015–2022)
    • Naeun (2015–2022)
    • Yena (2015–2022)
    • Jinsol (2015–2022)
    • Chaekyung (2016–2022)
    • Rachel (2016–2022)
  • Mirae (2021–2024, disbanded)
    • Lien (2021–2024)
    • Lee Jun-hyuk (2021–2024)
    • Yoo Dou-hyun (2021–2024)
    • Khael (2021–2024)
    • Park Si-young (2021–2024)
    • Jang Yu-bin (2021–2024)

WM Entertainment

[edit]

Notes

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

RBW (company)

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
RBW Inc., commonly known as RBW or Rainbow Bridge World, is a South Korean entertainment company specializing in the industry as an integrated music production and artist management firm. Founded on March 5, 2010, as Rainbowbridge Agency, Inc., by producers , Kim Jin Woo, and Hwang Sung Jin, it was renamed RBW Inc. in February 2015 and is headquartered in Seoul's Gwangjin-gu district. The company provides a range of services, including artist casting and training, music and album production, style consulting, TV program planning, K-pop education, tour programs, entertainment-business training, and PR marketing, with operations extending internationally through subsidiaries and partnerships. RBW oversees prominent K-pop acts such as the girl group MAMAMOO and boy groups ONEUS and ONEWE, while its subsidiaries—including WM Entertainment (managing artists like Oh My Girl, B1A4, and ONF) and DSP Media—handle additional rosters and content production. As of 2025, RBW has expanded its global footprint through strategic alliances, such as a partnership with in to distribute its catalog to over 200 million users, and maintains a in ; in 2024, RBW signed a 100 billion won distribution contract with for its music and content. The company collectively holds rights to more than 8,500 musical intellectual properties across its labels. With co-CEOs and Kim Jin Woo at the helm, RBW emphasizes artist incubation and sustainable profitability, employing 87 staff (as of 2025) and listing on the exchange under ticker 361570.

History

2010–2014: Founding and early artist debuts

RBW was founded on March 5, 2010, as Rainbow Bridge Agency by producers Kim Jin-woo, , and Hwang Sung-jin, operating initially as a small company centered on music production services for external clients and copyright-related activities. The agency positioned itself as Korea's first OEM-type entity, providing customized content creation and production support to other labels rather than immediately launching its own s. In its early years, operations emphasized developing in-house songwriting capabilities and nurturing producers to build a robust creative pipeline, reflecting a focus on long-term content generation over rapid artist debuts. To strengthen its production infrastructure, the company formed key partnerships and expanded its team. In August 2011, it established Modern&Bridge, Inc., a with co-CEOs Kim Hyung Kyu and Kim Jin-woo, enhancing its music production scope. A significant addition came in March 2012 with the incorporation of WA Entertainment, where producer joined as CEO and key collaborator, bringing expertise in composition and artist development to bolster the agency's songwriting and production efforts. These moves laid the groundwork for initial creative teams dedicated to planning, development, and execution of music projects, including minor session work and support for external artists, such as a 2013 agency contract with for managing groups Beast and in . The period culminated in the debut of RBW's first major artist group, , on June 18, 2014, marking a shift toward in-house talent incubation. The group underwent rigorous pre-debut training starting around 2010–2011, beginning with nine trainees who were progressively evaluated and reduced to four members—Solar, , , and —after one departure. Training prioritized musical proficiency, emphasizing R&B and influences over standard idol , with the members honing live performance skills under the guidance of producers like . Their debut single, "Mr. Ambiguous," from the EP Hello, showcased this musician-led concept, featuring collaborations with artists such as Don Spike and in the music video, and quickly established as a vocally strong act.

2015–2020: Rebranding, mergers, and label growth

In February 2015, Rainbow Bridge Agency merged with WA Entertainment to form RBW Inc., officially as Rainbow Bridge World and broadening its operations from music production to comprehensive artist management and entertainment services. This consolidation, led by co-CEOs Kim Jin-woo and , positioned RBW as a multifaceted company, with initial capital increases supporting expanded investments in talent development. RBW launched its first sub-label, Cloud R, in May 2016 through a with producer Lee Seong-yeon, aiming to nurture rock and alternative acts independently within the company's ecosystem. In March 2017, RBW established All Right Music as a hip-hop-focused sub-label, headed by rapper and Im Sang-hyuk, to provide specialized support for genre-specific artists including , Marvel J, and B.O. These launches marked early internal consolidations, fostering diverse musical divisions while early merger discussions solidified RBW's structure post-rebranding. Building on its foundational production expertise, RBW debuted in November 2016 as a vocal group after a two-year training period, followed by the hip-hop P.O.P in July 2017, both under the main label to diversify its roster beyond . In 2019, RBW expanded its boy group lineup with , formed from trainees featured in the 2017-2018 reality series RBW Trainee Real Life – We Will Debut, who underwent rigorous multi-year training including survival show appearances on ; their debut mini-album Light Us emphasized performance-driven concepts. That same year, re-debuted under the main label after evolving from the Cloud R MAS 0094, with members trained since 2015, releasing the single album 1/4 to highlight their instrumental skills and alternative sound. Mamamoo's rising prominence during this period significantly fueled RBW's growth, with chart-topping hits like "" (2016) and "Starry Night" (2018) earning multiple music show wins and certifications, alongside international tours such as the 2018 4th World Tour and Japan showcase HELLOBABY. This success, driven by the group's vocal prowess and self-produced elements, contributed to RBW's revenue reaching ₩37.2 billion in 2020, a 33.6% increase from the prior year. RBW's initial forays into global markets included establishing a Japan branch in June 2018 to facilitate auditions, artist promotions, and regional development, coinciding with Mamamoo's Japanese debut single Gift later that year in partnership with Victor Entertainment.

2021–2022: Public listing, acquisitions, and key departures

In November 2021, RBW completed its (IPO) on the market under the stock code 361570, raising approximately 26.8 billion KRW to support business expansion and content production initiatives. The listing marked a significant milestone for the company, enabling it to access capital markets for further growth in the entertainment sector following years of internal label development. Earlier in the year, on April 7, 2021, RBW announced the acquisition of a 70% stake in WM Entertainment through a sales and purchase agreement finalized on March 31, integrating prominent artists such as Oh My Girl, B1A4, and ONF into its expanded roster. This move strengthened RBW's position in the K-pop industry by combining resources for artist management and content creation, with WM operating as a subsidiary to leverage shared production capabilities. In January 2022, RBW further consolidated its portfolio by acquiring a 39.13% controlling stake in DSP Media for 9.03 billion KRW, adding legacy acts like KARA and emerging groups such as KARD and MIRAE, while fully incorporating DSP as a subsidiary by March. These acquisitions facilitated synergies in talent scouting, music distribution, and global promotions, enhancing RBW's overall operational scale post-IPO. Amid these expansions, RBW faced key artist transitions, including the departure of member , who declined to renew her individual contract with the agency in June 2021 but agreed to an extension until December 2023 to continue group activities. subsequently signed with The L1ve in September 2021 for her solo endeavors, while MAMAMOO's other members—Solar, , and —renewed their contracts with RBW, ensuring the group's continuity. Concurrently, RBW debuted its new girl group on March 15, 2021, with the mini-album Into Violet, as part of early post-IPO efforts to refresh its lineup despite integration challenges from the recent subsidiary mergers.

2023–present: Stake adjustments, financial challenges, and recent artist changes

The company faced notable financial challenges in 2024, with consolidated revenue declining to ₩62.52 billion, a 31.62% drop from ₩91.43 billion the previous year, while net losses widened to ₩8.64 billion, marking a 143.1% increase from ₩3.55 billion in 2023. These results were attributed to reduced artist promotions and market saturation in , prompting RBW to prioritize cost efficiencies and selective investments. The RBW 2023 Summer Festival, held in July in and August in , served as a key milestone event showcasing artists from RBW and its subsidiaries like and , highlighting the company's family concert format despite impending fiscal strains. Artist roster changes intensified in 2025, beginning with the August 4 announcement of Purple Kiss's disbandment, with group activities concluding on November 16, 2025, after four years, though the members' individual contracts with RBW remain active until at least 2028. The decision has sparked backlash from fans, who expressed anger over the members' ongoing contracts with RBW until at least 2028, limiting their immediate solo opportunities. In September, saw the departure of soloist Lee Chae-yeon after mutual agreement to terminate her exclusive contract, coinciding with the abrupt exit of longtime CEO Lee Won-min, who was reportedly dismissed by RBW in August due to profitability concerns. Despite these developments, RBW's stock rose approximately 5% on , reflecting investor optimism in the parent company's restructuring. Recent highlights included member Solar's release of her second Want on April 2, featuring the upbeat title track that emphasized her and marked a return to solo promotions under RBW.

Corporate structure

Core sub-labels and operations

RBW's main label serves as the cornerstone of the company's artist development and production efforts, leveraging the proprietary to oversee the full lifecycle from talent casting and specialized training in vocals and dance to music composition, production, choreography development, and debut strategies. This integrated approach enables RBW to nurture exclusive artists through in-house planning, , and management, drawing on a team of top Korean producers for creation and project albums. To expand its creative scope, RBW has developed internal sub-labels focused on niche genres and content creation. Cloud R, established in 2016, specializes in hip-hop talent scouting and development, operating as a dedicated platform within RBW's ecosystem. All Right Music, launched in March 2017 as an independent hip-hop and R&B-oriented label, is led by rapper and producer Im Sang-hyuk, emphasizing collaborative projects that blend rap, vocals, and melodic elements, as seen in its debut showcase featuring artists like B.O. and Marvel J. Modern RBW functions as a collaborative initiative with the Modern K Practical Music Academy, aimed at discovering and promoting emerging musicians via digital single releases and talent incubation. Contents X operates as an IP management and media production arm, delivering comprehensive solutions for enhancing K-pop intellectual property value, including global licensing and content monetization strategies. RBW's operational headquarters are located at 129 Jayang-ro, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul, South Korea, where its core functions—including artist and repertoire (A&R), music production, and marketing—are centralized. As of 2024, the company employs 87 staff members dedicated to these activities. International branches in Japan and Vietnam provide supplementary support for global artist promotion and production logistics.

Major acquired subsidiaries

In 2021, RBW acquired a 70% stake in WM Entertainment through a sales and purchase agreement completed on March 31, making it a key subsidiary focused on artist roster management. This integration allowed RBW to expand its entertainment portfolio, with WM handling operations for multiple idol groups and soloists under RBW's oversight. By 2025, amid financial pressures, RBW implemented partial divestments at WM, including the termination of select artist contracts and leadership changes, such as the August firing of founder and CEO Lee Won-min due to profitability declines and management disputes. RBW co-CEO Kim Jin-woo assumed leadership of WM following the exit of several executives, maintaining its status as an independent subsidiary while streamlining operations. RBW further strengthened its structure in 2022 by acquiring over 51% of , incorporating it as a on January 26 for approximately 9.03 billion won (about $7.5 million), primarily to bolster IP and content businesses. Post-acquisition, DSP continued its role in managing legacy idol group operations, integrating resources for production and artist development under RBW's umbrella. In December 2022, DSP underwent an absorption merger with Entertainment, transferring its assets and enhancing post-merger capabilities in artist planning and production, with ' CEO Min Myung-ki appointed as DSP's general producer. This move solidified DSP's operational efficiency within RBW's network, focusing on sustained idol group activities without major disruptions. RBW entered the content production sector in December 2022 by acquiring a 50% stake in for 10 billion won ($7.88 million), positioning it as the largest and enabling synergies in media creation. The supported RBW's broader content ecosystem initially through collaborative projects. However, in 2024, RBW sold its 50% stake, leading to deconsolidation and removal from its list amid efforts to improve financial health. Despite the divestment, limited ties persist through prior content agreements, though now operates independently.

International expansions and branches

RBW began its international expansion efforts in by establishing dedicated branches to enhance promotion, talent , and content distribution in emerging markets. In June 2018, the company launched RBW Japan as its Japanese subsidiary, focusing on facilitating debuts and activities within the Asian region. This branch has supported promotional events, including the RBW 2023 Summer Fes 'Over The Rainbow,' a two-day held at Garden Theater on August 19 and 20, 2023, featuring performances by RBW-affiliated artists to engage Japanese fans. Earlier, in March 2016, RBW established its branch, RBW Vietnam Co., Ltd., in , in partnership with , to scout local talent and distribute content tailored to . The branch has been instrumental in producing localized programs, such as the app content for Vietnamese audiences since 2015, and in launching the Vietnamese boy group D1Verse in February 2020, marking RBW's first foray into regionally produced acts. This initiative underscores RBW's strategy to build a presence in high-growth markets through joint ventures and cultural adaptation. RBW's broader international strategies extend beyond Asia, encompassing artist tours in and to expand global reach, as seen in ONEUS's 'La Dolce Vita' world tour, which included stops in multiple U.S. cities starting March 2024 and European dates in late 2023. Additionally, in May 2025, RBW signed a strategic copyright partnership with , China's leading streaming platform, through its affiliates including , granting access to over 8,500 music copyrights to boost streaming among Chinese youth and facilitate cross-border content exchange. These efforts, supported by domestic subsidiaries, aim to diversify revenue streams and strengthen RBW's position in the global entertainment landscape.

Financial performance

RBW's revenue demonstrated steady growth in the early 2020s, reaching a peak of ₩91.43 billion in 2023 before declining to ₩62.52 billion in 2024, reflecting broader challenges in the South Korean entertainment industry such as reduced album sales and fewer high-impact artist comebacks. As of the third quarter of 2025, trailing twelve-month revenue stood at approximately ₩50.51 billion, indicating continued decline. In 2020, the company reported revenue of ₩37.28 billion, which increased to ₩59.62 billion in 2021 following its initial public offering that raised approximately ₩26.8 billion, providing capital for expansions including subsidiary integrations. This growth trajectory was supported by successful artist activities, though revenue fluctuations were influenced by the timing of comebacks and mergers, such as the acquisition of a controlling stake in DSP Media in 2022, which expanded RBW's artist roster but incurred significant integration costs. Profitability shifted from positive to negative in recent years, with operating income of ₩7.63 billion in 2020 turning to a net loss of ₩8.64 billion in 2024, driven by rising operational expenses and amortization from acquisitions amid an industry slowdown. The 2021 IPO proceeds facilitated investments in content production and global outreach, contributing to a high of ₩7.20 billion in 2021, but subsequent years saw margins erode due to higher costs for artist promotions and management. The following table summarizes key financial metrics (in ₩ billions):
YearOperating Income
202037.284.317.63
202159.627.209.58
202263.090.392.88
202391.43-3.56-2.23
202462.52-8.64-12.28
These trends highlight RBW's expansion through strategic moves like the DSP Media acquisition, which bolstered its portfolio but strained profitability due to elevated expenses and softer market conditions in 2024 and 2025.

Stock listing and market fluctuations

RBW Inc. went public on the exchange on November 22, 2021, under the 361570. At its debut, the company's initial stood at approximately 309 billion KRW, reflecting strong investor interest in its diversified portfolio, including artists like . Trading volume in the early post-listing period averaged over 200,000 shares daily, indicating robust liquidity for a mid-cap , though volumes have since moderated to a 65-day average of around 103,631 shares as of late 2025, typical for the sector amid fluctuating . The stock has experienced notable volatility since its listing, influenced by operational challenges and key events. In , shares dipped significantly, falling up to 20% in quarterly lows, amid reported financial losses that widened to 302 KRW per share from 124 KRW the prior year, driven by reduced revenue from artist activities and acquisition integration costs. This contrasted with a rebound in September 2025, where the stock rose approximately 6% despite turmoil at subsidiary , including the departure of Lee Chaeyeon and the dismissal of CEO Lee Won-min due to management issues. These fluctuations underscore the stock's sensitivity to artist-related news, with overall performance tied loosely to revenue stability from core labels. Investor relations efforts have emphasized transparency through regular disclosures, including quarterly reports filed with the that detail financial impacts from strategic decisions. For instance, following the August 2025 announcement of Purple Kiss's disbandment—effective November 2025 after four years—RBW's Q3 2025 report addressed the event by outlining continued solo promotions for members and an English-language album release to mitigate revenue gaps, reassuring investors of portfolio diversification beyond the group. Such responses have helped stabilize trading amid criticisms, maintaining average daily volumes without extreme spikes during the period.

Current artists

Performers under RBW main label

RBW's main label manages a select roster of active performers, focusing on established acts with ongoing projects in music, tours, and sub-unit endeavors as of late 2025. These artists contribute to the label's emphasis on diverse genres, from vocal-driven pop to rock and hip-hop, without any reported disbandments among them this year. , the flagship girl group, maintains group activities under RBW despite individual members pursuing solo careers elsewhere, including Wheein's solo with her previous agency ending in August 2024. The quartet—Solar, , , and —has confirmed preparations for a full-group comeback in June 2026, followed by a world tour starting in Korea, marking their first collective release in nearly four years. ONEUS, the multinational boy group, has been active with extensive touring and album releases throughout 2025, including their world tour "H_OUR, " that kicked off in the U.S. in August and extended to in . The six-member , known for intricate and fantasy-themed concepts, continues to build international momentum under RBW's direct oversight. ONEWE, RBW's rock-oriented boy band, has focused on album projects and live performances in 2025, releasing their fourth mini-album MAZE: AD ASTRA in October, which explores thematic depth through elements. The group also embarked on their first world tour, "O! NEW E!volution Ⅳ," spanning , , and an encore in , alongside a performance at the . ONF, operating through sub-units ON Team and OFF Team, has emphasized vocal and performance versatility in 2025 with the release of their ninth mini-album UNBROKEN on November 10 and fan concerts in . The six-member group, divided into bright vocal-focused ON and charismatic dance-driven OFF units, prepared an earlier comeback with ONF: MY Identity in February, highlighting their dual-concept identity. Among soloists, , a member, handles independent solo releases while affiliated with RBW for group endeavors, though her 2025 activities, including the single "" in October and a North American tour, are primarily managed externally. Solar, another member remaining under RBW, released her second single album WANT in April 2025, featuring the title track of the same name, and expanded internationally with the Chinese single Floating Free (physical EP) in June. YOUNG POSSE, the hip-hop girl group under RBW's Beats Entertainment sub-label, has sustained momentum in 2025 with their fourth EP Growing Pain pt.1: Free in August and a special album Cold featuring 10cm in March, alongside their first solo concert in November. The five-member collective blends street-style rap and R&B, performing at events like the Color in Music Festival.

Artists managed by WM Entertainment

WM Entertainment, a of RBW since its acquisition in 2021, primarily manages established idol groups, integrating their activities with RBW's broader ecosystem while emphasizing veteran artist longevity and new debuts. The label oversees boy groups like ONF and , alongside girl groups such as and the newly debuted USPEER, focusing on sustained promotions, comebacks, and international tours to maintain fan engagement. ONF, a six-member boy group, operates under cross-management between and RBW's main label, allowing for collaborative projects while WM handles core scheduling and releases. In 2025, ONF released their ninth mini-album UNBROKEN on November 10, featuring themes of resilience and identity upgrade, following an earlier full-length album rollout in February that emphasized their evolving musical style. The group also conducted joint concerts with , including a performance in June, highlighting WM's strategy for veteran boy group synergies. B1A4, a veteran five-member boy group (with three active members post-departures), continues limited group activities under WM, centered on anniversary concerts and special clips to celebrate their legacy. Their 2025 solo concert Singularity, held in May at Yes24 Live Hall, featured performances of hits like "DIVING," underscoring WM's role in preserving long-term artist viability through selective veteran engagements. OH MY GIRL, WM's flagship girl group, renewed contracts for four members—Hyojung, Mimi, Seunghee, and Yubin—in May 2025, enabling continued promotions as a unit despite the departure of YooA and Arin from the agency (though group activities persist). To mark their 10th anniversary, the group released the digital single "Oh My" in April, blending nostalgic elements with fresh production to reaffirm their whimsical concept. USPEER, WM's first new girl group in a decade, debuted on June 4, 2025, with the single album SPEED ZONE and title track "ZOOM," introducing a seven-member lineup (Yewon, Soee, Sian, Seoyu, Daon, Chaena, Roa) focused on high-energy performances and ambitious global goals like Coachella. This launch revitalized WM's girl group pipeline, drawing parallels to OH MY GIRL's foundational success. As of 2025, WM underwent significant leadership restructuring when founder and longtime CEO Lee Won-min was dismissed amid internal disagreements with RBW, with RBW co-CEO Kim Jin-woo assuming direct oversight to streamline operations and artist management. This shift has influenced WM's focus on ballad-infused idol content, as seen in solo endeavors by members like from , while prioritizing RBW-wide collaborations for cross-label exposure. No active soloists remain under WM post-2025, following Lee Chaeyeon's contract termination in .

Artists under DSP Media

DSP Media, a subsidiary of RBW Entertainment since its acquisition in January 2022, manages a diverse roster of active musical artists and performers, emphasizing co-ed groups, girl groups, duos, and soloists alongside select actors. The label's integration into RBW has enabled shared promotional resources, such as joint family concerts and cross-subsidiary collaborations, facilitating more frequent comebacks and international tours for its talents. Among the prominent groups under DSP Media is KARD, a mixed-gender quartet consisting of BM, J.Seph, Somin, and Jiwoo, known for their genre-blending music incorporating hip-hop, EDM, and pop elements. Formed in 2017, KARD remains active with ongoing world tours, including their 2025 "DRIFT" tour, which began in July and spans , , and , highlighting their global appeal as one of K-pop's few co-ed acts. KARA, the veteran originally debuted by in 2007, continues under the label through reunion projects following their 2022 full-group comeback under RBW's oversight. With core members , , , and actively participating in periodic activities, KARA focuses on nostalgic performances and special events, leveraging DSP's legacy in second-generation . Young Posse, a five-member girl group co-managed with BEATS Entertainment, debuted in 2023 and has solidified their presence with hip-hop-infused tracks emphasizing bold, youthful energy. The group released their EP COLD in early 2025 and followed with a comeback in August, including the single "YSSR," while performing at major festivals like the 2025 Color in Music Festival. In the duo category, , comprising Do Ayun and Jinaon, specializes in emotional ballad performances and has contributed to drama OSTs and singles like "Cure" in 2025. Their work underscores DSP Media's strength in vocal-driven projects, with recent collaborations enhancing their visibility. Solo artists include , a versatile singer recognized for her folk and OST contributions, who released the EP My spring, or yours and singles like "지박 (地縛)" in 2025, alongside acoustic performances bridging generations. Lee Jin-jae, a rising vocalist, has focused on soundtrack work, including OSTs "Hansum" for Danjoo and "Nightmare" for Childhood Ghost Stories in 2025, marking his growing role in media tie-ins. Additionally, Son Dong-pyo, formerly of , transitioned to solo activities post-2024, continuing under DSP with individual promotions. DSP Media's entertainment scope extends to actors, including Kim Min, who joined in 2023 and has pursued roles in dramas and films, contributing to the subsidiary's broader talent management beyond music. This diversification, post-RBW integration, has positively impacted the parent company's financials by increasing holdings to over 8,500 music assets as of March 2025, supporting sustained profitability through licensing and artist synergies.

Studio personnel

Producers and songwriters

RBW's creative backbone consists of an in-house of producers and songwriters who handle composition, arrangement, and production for artists across its labels and subsidiaries. The emphasizes collaborative songwriting tailored to internal performers, drawing on exclusive contracts with key talents to ensure cohesive output. Founded in 2010 by producers , Kim Jin-woo, and Hwang Sung-jin, the structure integrates scouting, training, and production under the RBW Artist Incubating System (), fostering hits for groups like and . Kim Do-hoon, co-founder and CEO, serves as the chief and primary songwriter, renowned for crafting MAMAMOO's breakthrough tracks such as "Mr. Ambiguous" (2014) and "" (2016), which blend retro influences with powerful vocals. His contributions extend to over 600 songs, including early works for artists like IU and , establishing RBW's signature sound of melody-driven pop with orchestral elements. In recognition of his 2014 output, won the Composer of the Year award at the 4th Gaon Chart K-POP Awards. Seo Yong-bae stands out as a core producer and composer, frequently handling tracks for , including the energetic "LIT" (2019) and the dynamic "" (2022), which showcase his style of lush, uptempo pop with rock and symphonic accents. Collaborating as part of the duo Iggy Yongbae since around 2012, Seo Yong-bae has co-produced tracks for other agencies, such as Cherry Bullet's "Love So Sweet" (2021), incorporating international production influences through joint efforts with global session contributors. His work often pairs with arranger Lee Sang-ho under the team name , enhancing cohesion in boy group releases. The production framework spans RBW's main label and subsidiaries like and , with post-2021 acquisitions promoting resource sharing among exclusive staff such as Park Woo-sang and Choi Yong-chan for cross-label songwriting. This integration allows producers to adapt styles for diverse rosters, from MAMAMOO's vocal-centric pieces to ONEUS's performance-oriented anthems, while maintaining RBW's focus on in-house credits for . As of 2025, no major changes to the core production team have been reported following recent subsidiary leadership adjustments.

Session musicians and support staff

RBW employs an in-house string session team called RB-INJ, formed through a collaboration with the group I.N.J Orchestra under the direction of producer Suk-hong. This team specializes in orchestral string recordings and arrangements, supporting live sessions and studio productions for RBW artists by providing layered string sections that enhance tracks across genres like and ballads. RB-INJ operates from Infinity Studio in , contributing to a wide portfolio of projects that includes reinterpreting classic songs with string orchestrations. In addition to instrumental session support, RBW utilizes vocal coaches as part of its integrated artist training system, focusing on vocal technique and preparation for debuts and live sessions. These coaches deliver specialized sessions within programs like RBWithus, helping trainees develop skills in stage delivery and . Producers oversee these sessions to ensure alignment with artistic visions. The company's operational support includes A&R personnel and sound engineers who handle scouting, logistical coordination, and technical recording processes. As of 2025, RBW employs approximately 100 staff to support these roles alongside broader studio operations. This team facilitated behind-the-scenes production for major events, including the RBW 2023 Summer Festival: , which showcased integrated performances from RBW and subsidiary artists.

Awards and accolades

2011–2015: Early recognition

During its formative years, RBW, then known as Rainbow Bridge Agency, began receiving recognition for the songwriting and production talents of its founders, particularly composer Kim Do-hoon and songwriter Lee Sang-ho. In 2011, they were honored at the inaugural Korean Music Copyright Association (KOMCA) Music Awards. This momentum continued into 2014, a pivotal year marked by RBW's debut of girl group Mamamoo on June 18, which showcased the label's innovative approach to vocal-centric R&B and soul-infused pop production. Kim Do-hoon received the Best Songwriter Award at the 6th MelOn Music Awards for his work on hits such as Soyou and JunggiGo's "Some," K.Will's "Please Don't...," and CNBLUE's "I'm a Loner," highlighting RBW's growing influence in crafting chart-topping tracks. Later that year, at the 4th Gaon Chart K-Pop Awards (held in 2015 but covering 2014 achievements), Kim Do-hoon was named Composer of the Year, further validating the company's production prowess as Mamamoo's debut EP Mr. Ambiguous gained traction. In 2015, earned accolades at the KOMCA Music Awards with the Best of the Year, reflecting RBW's strengthening reputation in songwriting excellence tied to its expanding artist roster. Concurrently, RBW co-CEO Kim Jin-woo was awarded the Young Entrepreneur Award by the Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy, recognizing his leadership in building a sustainable venture from its production roots. These honors underscored RBW's early successes in nurturing talent and innovation prior to broader industry expansion.

2016–2020: Expansion-era honors

During the 2016–2020 period, RBW experienced significant growth through the successful debuts of boy groups ONF in 2017 and in 2019, which contributed to the company's diversification into multi-genre production and international outreach. This expansion era was marked by notable honors recognizing the and creative contributions of RBW executives, building on the label's early copyright-focused recognitions. In 2016, RBW co-CEO Kim Jin-woo received the Grand Prize in the Sector of Mass Culture at the Korea Business Management Awards, highlighting the company's emerging role in management. The following year, 2017, saw RBW's chief producer awarded the Grand Prize in Composition for at the 3rd KOMCA Awards, acknowledging his top earnings from music copyrights the prior year. Additionally, producers Seo Yong-bae and , key collaborators at RBW, won the New Producer Award at the inaugural Soribada Best K-Music Awards, reflecting the label's rising influence in Hallyu content creation. By 2018, Kim Do-hoon earned the Producer Award at the 2nd Soribada Best K-Music Awards, further solidifying his status in K-pop production amid RBW's roster expansion. That same year, Kim Jin-woo was honored with the Best Program Award for 2017 at the V Live Vietnam Awards, signaling RBW's growing international presence in digital entertainment platforms. In 2019, Kim Jin-woo received the Minister's Prize from the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism at the Korea Entertainment Producers' Association ceremony, in recognition of his contributions to the development of the popular music industry through RBW's artist successes, including the impending Oneus debut. Closing the period, 2020 brought Kim Jin-woo the Minister of SMEs and Startups Prize at the 17th Korea Startup Awards, celebrating RBW's innovative business model and job creation in the content sector. also secured the Producer Award at the 4th Soribada Best K-Music Awards, underscoring the company's sustained creative impact during a challenging global year.

2021–present: Recent achievements

In , RBW achieved a significant milestone by listing on the exchange on November 22, marking its transition to a publicly traded entity and boosting its to approximately 440 billion KRW at an opening price double the IPO target of 21,400 KRW. This IPO underscored the company's growth in artist management and content production, with identified as its highest-grossing act in the filing report. The following year, RBW was selected as an "Excellent Venture Company" by the Korea Venture Business Association, recognizing its innovative contributions to the sector amid ongoing expansions. In December 2022, the company acquired a 50% stake in production house Urban Works for 10 billion KRW, securing its position as the largest shareholder and integrating additional content creation capabilities through subsidiaries like and . These moves highlighted RBW's strategic focus on mergers and financial consolidation rather than traditional award pursuits. In 2023, RBW organized its inaugural family concert series, RBW 2023 Summer Fes Over The Rainbow, held in in July and in August, featuring artists from its main label and subsidiaries such as , , , and ; the event successfully drew large audiences and strengthened inter-label collaborations. Artist recognitions under RBW, including Solar's musical theater roles and 's Emotive Award at the , further reflected the company's production strengths during this period of operational integration. RBW's accolades remained relatively sparse in 2023–2024, aligning with a heightened emphasis on and global partnerships over public honors. A pivotal development came in April 2024, when RBW signed a comprehensive music and content distribution agreement with valued at 100 billion KRW (including contributions from ), enabling broader international reach for its catalog and artist promotions. As of 2025, RBW continued its trajectory with CEO Kim Jin-woo receiving the Special Award at the Green Growth & Culture Award ceremony in October, presented by the for advancing sustainable practices in cultural content production. Ongoing projects, such as Solar's solo single 'Want' released in and preparations for Mamamoo's 10th anniversary activities, position the company for potential future recognitions in content innovation and artist development.

Former artists and staff

Departed RBW performers

RBW has seen several departures from its main roster of performers over the years, primarily due to contract expirations and artists pursuing solo careers, which has occasionally led to fan concerns about the agency's management strategies. Earlier groups include Phantom, which disbanded in 2017 after two years, with members transitioning to other projects. D1Verse entered an indefinite hiatus in 2020 and officially disbanded in 2022 following internal discussions. Mamamoo's ended her exclusive contract with RBW in June 2021 after seven years, transitioning to The label founded by Ravi to focus on her solo endeavors, while agreeing to an extension that allowed her to continue group activities with until December 2023. Similarly, Mamamoo's did not renew her contract with RBW upon its expiration in June 2023, opting for independence in her solo career before signing with , though she remains part of for group promotions coordinated separately. Among soloists, left in 2018 after three years to pursue , and Marvel J departed in 2020 following the end of his contract. Among groups, concluded their activities in September 2024 after eight years under RBW, with the decision reached through discussions among members Park Jang-hyun, Park Hyun-kyu, and Lee Hyun-seok, attributed to the natural end of their contracts and individual career paths. More recently, disbanded in November 2025 following the completion of their scheduled promotions, including an English album and final concerts, as announced by RBW in August 2025; despite the group's dissolution, the members—Chaein, Ireh, Yukih, , Dosie, and Goeun—remain under individual contracts with the agency until 2028, prompting significant fan backlash over limited opportunities for solo pursuits and concerns about RBW's "RBW " restructuring policy.

Ex-artists from subsidiaries

Following the acquisition of by RBW in April 2021, several artists previously under WM have departed the label. Soloist Lee Chaeyeon, known for her time in and subsequent solo promotions, terminated her exclusive contract with on September 12, 2025, after extended discussions with the agency. Earlier departures from WM include members of , such as JinE who left in 2017 due to health issues, Jiho in 2022 to pursue acting, and and Arin in May 2025 following the expiration of their contracts, though the latter two continue group activities. These exits reflect the typical evolution of idol group tenures under the subsidiary, with members often transitioning to individual careers post-departure. From , another long-standing WM act, Baro did not renew his contract in 2023 after 12 years, focusing on acting, while earlier members like Jinyoung and renewed but the group shifted to subunit activities. RBW's acquisition of in January 2022 brought additional historical departures into its fold, particularly from long-standing acts like KARA. Prior to the acquisition, KARA experienced partial member exits, including Nicole and in 2014 after declining to renew their contracts, reducing the group to a quartet before its full disbandment in 2016. Heo Young-ji remained with DSP until 2019, when her contract ended amicably. Post-acquisition, DSP's officially disbanded on January 28, 2022, after six years, with members parting ways through mutual agreements. Former member Chaewon terminated her contract in February 2022, while Yena followed in 2022; both decisions stemmed from discussions on future activities. In a notable post-disbandment development, member Rachel's contract was transferred from DSP to parent company RBW in June 2023 to support her ongoing promotions. Boy group , under DSP, entered a hiatus in May 2023 due to member Jun Hyuk's ankle injury during music video filming, but ultimately disbanded on July 9, 2024, after three years. All members except Son Dong-pyo, who renewed for solo pursuits, terminated their contracts with DSP following mutual deliberations. In , contract dynamics for ex-subsidiary artists have highlighted binding obligations post-disbandment, similar to patterns observed in RBW's core roster. For instance, transferred or renewed contracts like under RBW ensure continued management ties, enabling potential cross-label opportunities while limiting immediate independent moves.

Former production and executive staff

, a South Korean-American and , joined RBW in 2014 under its WA Entertainment division and contributed to songwriting and production efforts, including collaborations with artists like on tracks such as "Ahh-Oop" in 2015. She departed the company in 2017 to pursue independent projects. Yangpa, known professionally as a ballad singer and occasional songwriter, signed with RBW in September 2015, bringing her experience from prior labels to the company's roster of creative talents. Her tenure lasted until 2018, during which she released music under RBW's production umbrella before transitioning to other ventures. In the executive realm, RBW underwent a significant change in its subsidiary in early August 2025, when the company dismissed longtime CEO Lee Won-min after 17 years at the helm. This move, reportedly initiated by RBW's parent oversight, led to co-CEO Kim Jin-woo assuming direct of WM to stabilize operations. Regarding early foundational shifts, RBW's original structure evolved from its 2010 inception by producers Kim Jin-woo, , and Hwang Sung-jin, with key role adjustments following the 2015 merger with WA Entertainment that integrated additional executive oversight. These transitions facilitated a consolidation of production expertise into the company's expanding framework. Post-2020 staff changes, including producer exits, have enabled the transfer of accumulated creative knowledge to RBW's current teams, supporting continuity in music production and artist development amid evolving company priorities.

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  127. https://www.allkpop.com/article/2015/09/yangpa-joins-mamamoo-at-rbw-inc
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