GOT7’s Youngjae publicly calls out ongoing payment dispute over ‘Dream High 2’ appearance

GOT7 member Youngjae (GOT7) has once again spoken out regarding an unresolved payment dispute related to his appearance in the musical production 'Dream High 2.'

On June 9, Youngjae posted a lengthy message on his personal social media account, stating, “I thought you said everything would be settled by June 9, but it still hasn’t been resolved.” His post suggests that the long-standing issue of unpaid appearance fees remains unresolved despite previous assurances.

Earlier in January, Youngjae had already filed a lawsuit against the production company behind the musical, claiming that he had not received his performance fees for his role in 'Dream High 2.' He performed in the stage production between April and July last year, but reportedly did not receive full payment even after the show concluded.

The controversy has continued to grow, particularly after reports emerged that a third season of 'Dream High' is in production, raising public concerns and speculation about potential financial mismanagement or “paying old debts with new productions.”

In his recent statement, Youngjae emphasized that only partial payments have been made, stressing that the situation should not be misrepresented as being “in progress.” He wrote that the outstanding amount is still significant and questioned how audiences would feel seeing such unresolved issues being publicly downplayed. 

He also directly mentioned the production company, Art One Company, and its CEO Kim Eunha, effectively making the dispute public. “I did not ask for anything unfair,” he added. “I wanted this matter to be resolved amicably, but I don’t believe the situation was made uncomfortable by our side.”

Youngjae, who enlisted for alternative military service in November last year, is currently serving as a social service worker while the dispute continues to unfold.