Member of JYP's U.S. girl group VCHA files lawsuit against agency, alleging serious abuse; JYP USA denies claims as "false and exaggerated."

KG (real name Keira Grace Mather, 17), a member of VCHA, released a personal statement on her Instagram Story on December 7. She alleged, "I have experienced abuse and mistreatment from specific JYP staff members."

KG claimed she decided to terminate her contract with the agency in May. "I decided to end my contract with JYP and leave VCHA, and I have filed a lawsuit," she stated. "I still hope for the contract to be terminated."

She also criticized the work and living environment within the group, saying, "I do not support the work and living conditions that led a member to attempt an extreme decision. I also do not support an environment that fosters eating disorders and self-harm among members."

KG further pointed to issues with the financial system. "I have accumulated a significant amount of company debt. Despite having my personal life strictly restricted, my compensation has been minimal," she said.

She framed these problems as systemic within the K-pop industry. "I want to thank J.Y. Park (JYP), the executive team, and the training staff," she noted. "I don't want to blame anyone specifically. This is a problem deeply rooted in the K-pop industry."

KG concluded by expressing gratitude for her experiences in the group. "I am thankful for the friendships I made and the opportunity to perform for audiences around the world," she said. "Even in my absence, please continue to support VCHA."

JYP USA responded by refuting KG's allegations as exaggerated. On December 9, they stated, "In May, KG left the group's shared residence and initiated discussions through her legal representatives. We have been exploring various resolutions with her representatives."

However, JYP USA noted a lack of response from KG's side recently. "We have been awaiting further communication from KG's representatives," the company added.

JYP USA expressed regret over the lawsuit. "The public statement includes false and exaggerated claims," the company said. "Such actions have caused significant harm to VCHA and the other members of JYP USA."

VCHA is a six-member girl group formed through the "A2K" (America2Korea) project, a collaboration between JYP and Republic Records. The group officially debuted on January 26.