Jung Il-woo signs with G-Dragon's agency Galaxy Corporation

Actor Jung Il-woo has signed an exclusive contract with Galaxy Corporation, the home of Big Bang's G-Dragon, the agency announced Wednesday.

"Jung is a globally recognized Hallyu [Korean Wave] star who has enjoyed enduring popularity across Asia and is a valuable entertainment IP [intellectual property] in his own right," the agency said.

"Galaxy Corporation aims to go beyond traditional talent management by introducing a new global entertainment model that combines content, technology and brand businesses with Jung, creating new synergies in the global market."

Under the exclusive contract, Jung will expand his activities beyond dramas and films into AI-powered content, global fan platforms and brand collaborations as he seeks to strengthen his presence in the global market, according to Galaxy Corporation.

Jung debuted in MBC's sitcom "High Kick!" (2006-07) and went on to star in series including "The Moon Embracing the Sun" (2012) and "Cinderella and the Four Knights" (2016).

He also has a strong international fan base, with 14.5 million followers on Chinese social media platform Weibo.

Most recently, Jung appeared in the Japanese Prime Video series "Hanzaisha: Criminal," which was released on July 17.

Galaxy Corporation is home to major acts including G-Dragon, Taemin of SHINee and veteran actor Song Kang-ho. The company also recently signed actor Ryu Jun-yeol.

BY KIM JI-YE [[email protected]]