Why Fans Are Frustrated With G-Dragon’s Agency — Step Up, Galaxy Corporation!

After more than 11 years, G-Dragon is finally back with a full-length album. His last studio release, COUP D’ETAT, dropped in September 2013—so yes, it’s been a long time coming. And this time, he did not return under the familiar YG Entertainment, but instead through a surprising new partnership with a tech-forward company called Galaxy Corporation.

Back in December 2023, G-Dragon stunned fans by announcing his departure from YG, the label he had been with since before his debut. In a move no one quite saw coming, he signed with Galaxy Corporation—a name virtually unknown in the entertainment space, though well-established in the tech industry.

Based in Seoul’s Yeongdeungpo district, Galaxy Corporation focuses on software development, licensing of intellectual property, and most notably, AI and metaverse experiences. That resume made some fans raise an eyebrow—can a tech company really manage one of K-pop’s most iconic stars?

Still, the potential was exciting. Galaxy’s CEO, Choi Yong-ho, expressed ambitions to merge cutting-edge technology like AI, AR, and robotics with entertainment. In forums and interviews, he even hinted at concepts like virtual concerts that continue even after G-Dragon himself leaves the stage—imagine an AI G-Dragon holding down the show. It's ambitious, it's bold, and it certainly aligns with G-Dragon’s ever-evolving artistry.

But while the ideas are grand, the execution—at least so far—has left many fans with mixed feelings.

The Not-So-Perfect Debut of Galaxy Corporation: What Fans Are Saying

Let’s start with the obvious: G-Dragon fans (aka VIP/ FAM) are passionate and patient—but also, understandably, expectant. And many feel Galaxy Corporation has fallen short in some key areas.

1. Merch Madness & Resale Chaos

From light sticks to keyrings, official merch has been selling out in seconds, with resale prices soaring. Some fans never even had a chance to buy a light stick—an essential part of any K-pop concert experience. Even worse, certain items like cradles and keychains were made available at a limit of six per person, while the light stick was capped at two. Unsurprisingly, scalpers swooped in, and many loyal fans were left empty-handed.

Galaxy eventually promised that light sticks and select merch would be available for ongoing purchase in Korea, but fans couldn’t help but wonder—was the initial stock release too conservative, especially considering G-Dragon’s massive global fandom?

2. B Stage Membership Frustrations

Galaxy launched a paid membership program called B Stage, which came with the promise of exclusive perks. But the reality has been disappointing. During pre-sale, VIP seats weren’t fully allocated to B Stage members—many of whom had also subscribed to Coupang Play just to access ticketing (a separate 7,890 KRW fee). After all that effort, some fans were still beat out by general sales.

On top of that, international fans felt left out. Some Announcements were initially only in Korean, despite the company actively promoting the membership overseas. Thankfully, this has been improving, and recent posts have become more globally accessible—a step in the right direction.

Another frequent complaint? News about G-Dragon’s projects often surfaced in media outlets before fans were officially informed. For a fandom that’s waited over a decade for his return, being the last to know doesn’t feel great.

Signs of Growth, Glimmers of Hope

Despite early stumbles, Galaxy Corporation is listening. The company has started responding to fan feedback, tweaking its policies for the upcoming G-DRAGON 2025 WORLD TOUR 'ÜBERMENSCH' IN KOREA—his first world tour in eight years since Act III: M.O.T.T.E. The Korean leg alone, set for March 29–30 at Goyang Sports Complex, is already generating huge buzz, with more than 100,000 fans just trying to get tickets.

In response to scalping concerns, Galaxy recently announced that official concert merch—including light sticks, T-shirts, robes, photo books, and even duct tape (!)—will be sold in limited quantities per person, and only to those with valid tickets. That should help level the playing field, but with demand this high, fans are still bracing for potential shortages.

Looking ahead, Galaxy’s strength in AI could be its greatest asset. The company has already rolled out immersive exhibition content tied to G-Dragon, and there’s real excitement about how technology might elevate future performances. Virtual stages, AI dancers, holographic visuals—who knows? The possibilities are endless.

No company is perfect, and no transition is seamless. But as G-Dragon begins this new chapter, fans are rooting for him—and yes, also holding Galaxy Corporation to a higher standard. Managing one of Korea’s most influential artists comes with huge responsibility, and we’re hoping they rise to the occasion.

On March 9 and 19, Galaxy Corporation showcased its core strengths at the G-DRAGON Media Exhibition: Übermensch, held at The Hyundai Seoul. The immersive event received praise for seamlessly integrating cutting-edge technologies such as AI, real-time holograms, augmented reality (AR), and Unreal Engine-powered CG.

One of the biggest highlights was the debut of hologram performances of G-Dragon’s new tracks “TAKE ME” and “IBELONGIIU.” Through VR headsets, fans experienced G-Dragon singing and dancing right before their eyes—offering a rare and unforgettable glimpse into the future of performance art. It’s the kind of creative, tech-driven approach fans hope to see more of, as G-Dragon and Galaxy Corporation continue building this new chapter together.

Because at the end of the day, fans aren’t just here to critique—they’re here because they care. G-Dragon’s comeback has been years in the making, and we’re all rooting for him to thrive. So to Galaxy Corporation: we appreciate the bold ideas and the steps you’re taking. We believe in the vision—but we’re also watching closely. Let’s make this a journey worth remembering, for all the right reasons.

What about you? Got hopes, feedback, or ideas? We’d love to hear them.