2NE1 2016: Minzy to pursue solo career following exit from 2NE1, YG Entertainment

Minzy Gong finally breaks her silence after her shocking departure from 2NE1. The 22-year-old South Korean singer posted a handwritten letter on Instagram to personally apologize to fans for leaving the girl band so suddenly.

Minzy started with an apology, saying, "I would like to apologize to all those who expressed shock at the news of my departure." 2NE1 was Minzy's band for seven years, having debuted with the group when she was still 16-years-old. She was not only the group's main dancer, as she was also praised for her amazing vocal chops.

She also expressed her gratitude to fans and her former company YG Entertainment for building beautiful memories with her and helping her grow as an artist.

According to Korea Times, Minzy revealed her plans to return as a solo artist.

"After a long pondering, I decided to stand before you as Gong Minzy, not a member of 2NE1," she said in her Instagram post.

She also indicated that she will work even harder in order to present an "improved and more honest version" of herself when she makes her solo debut.

 Hello, this is Minzy. It is with a sincere heart that I write to you all. First, I would like to apologize to all those who expressed shock at the news of my departure. It is after careful consideration and much deliberation that I have decided to pursue a new journey as an artist named Minzy Kong. Ever since debuting with 2NE1 at the young age of 16, I have been grateful for the wonderful memories I shared with incredible fans worldwide. These experiences were undeniably precious and I take none of them for granted. Thank you all for helping me grow as an artist. I promise to work even harder to return before you all with an improved and more honest version of myself. Through a renewed vision and hard work, I hope to reciprocate the love, dedication, and support that you have shown me. Thank you to all the fans, family, and friends who have shown me their love and concern. I promise to return soon. love, Minzy

A photo posted by MINZY (@_minzy_mz) on May 4, 2016 at 8:03am PDT

Up to now, the reason behind her departure from 2NE1 remains unknown.

Minzy is currently a free agent, with YG Entertainment confirming on April 5 that she is no longer "a member of the team," Manila Bulletin reported. YG also expressed their sadness over the exit of Minzy, who was with the agency for 11 years.

"However, we also fully understand and respect the position of MINZY who went through a difficult time because of the sudden hiatus of the team two years ago, so we feel rather sorry than regrettable," YG Entertainment stated.

Meanwhile, the remaining members of 2NE1 - CL, Dara and Park Bom - will release an album later this year as a trio.

2NE1's last official activity as a quartet was the release of their full studio album "Crush" in 2014. The girls promoted the album with the hit track "Come Back Home," which was later followed with "Happy."

The group went on a two-year hiatus thereafter to focus on individual activities, particularly CL's impending solo debut in the United States.

Watch 2NE1's "Crush" M/V below: