Minzy leaves 2NE1, Pinoy fans react

Filipino fans of 2NE1 were dismayed to learn that Minzy, one of the four members of the group, has decided to leave after declining to renew her contract with record label YG Entertainment. 

On Monday, YG Entertainment released a statement confirming Minzy's departure. The singer was rumored to have been in talks with other music labels in South Korea.

"Last January, we had individual face-to-face talks with each member regarding renewing their contracts and showed our desire for the group to reform. Unfortunately, Gong Minzy did not feel the same," the statement read.

"Having to say goodbye to a colleague who has been with us since she was a trainee for 11 years is really difficult. However, we fully understand and respect Gong Minzy's position as the group had to suddenly halt promotions two years ago. Thus, it is true that we feel more sorry rather than feeling unsatisfied," it added.

YG Entertainment, however, said that the group, whose remaining members include former Pinoy actress Sandara Park, CL, and Park Bom, will continue as a trio.

"YG and the members promise to make a strong resolution for fans who have trusted 2NE1's music and waited. We will promise to return with the most 2NE1-style and 2NE1-appropriate music," the label said.

As the news broke, Minzy's name immediately became one of the top trending topics on Twitter in the Philippines. The phrase "In 2NE1 We Trust" was also one of the most talked about topics among Pinoys on the micro-blogging service.

2NE1, formed in 2009, last released an album back in 2014. The group held a concert in the Philippines in the same year as part of their "All or Nothing" world tour.

2NE1 last performed together at the 2015 Mnet Asian Music Awards in Hong Kong.

Credits: ABSCBN News