After more than a decade of defining the sound of modern K-pop, the legendary producing duo Black Eyed Pilseung has officially gone their separate ways.
Comprising Rado and Choi Kyu Sung, the two music producers spent 16 years together building a legacy that changed the trajectory of multiple idol groups and left an indelible mark on the genre.
Their breakup was confirmed by High Up Entertainment on September 13, 2025, revealing that the decision was made earlier this year due to creative differences.
According to the statement, Choi Kyu Sung departed the company in March, while Rado has remained with the label.
This marks the end of a golden era in K-pop production—one that was responsible for some of the genre’s most iconic and culture-defining songs.
Black Eyed Pilseung: The Hitmakers Behind a Generation of K-Pop Icons
Since forming in 2009, Black Eyed Pilseung quickly rose through the ranks of K-pop producers thanks to their unique fusion of catchy melodies, edgy synths, and genre-blending arrangements.
The duo was especially known for crafting title tracks that were both commercially successful and musically innovative.
Their extensive hit list includes:
- TWICE – “CHEER UP,” “TT,” “LIKEY”
- SISTAR – “Touch My Body,” “Loving U”
- Apink – “I’m So Sick”
- Chungha – “Gotta Go,” “Roller Coaster”
These songs didn’t just top charts—they defined eras for the artists and helped shape their public images.
For example, TWICE’s signature youthful and playful sound in their early years was built almost entirely on the foundation Black Eyed Pilseung laid with “Cheer Up” and “TT.”
Their knack for understanding an idol group’s identity and translating it into musical form made them a go-to name in the industry.
It’s no exaggeration to say that some of K-pop’s biggest careers owe a portion of their success to this powerhouse duo.
The Founding of High Up Entertainment and Launch of STAYC
In 2017, the duo took a major step beyond songwriting and producing by co-founding High Up Entertainment in partnership with CJ E&M.
The move signaled their ambition to gain creative control over not just music but artist development and management.
Their biggest move as executives came in 2020 with the debut of the girl group STAYC, a six-member act praised for its vocal stability, genre versatility, and refined pop sensibilities.
True to form, STAYC’s early success drew heavily from the Black Eyed Pilseung production style—songs like “ASAP” and “STEREOTYPE” received widespread attention for their fresh, addictive sound.
With STAYC, Black Eyed Pilseung proved they weren’t just producers—they were visionaries capable of building stars from the ground up.
Why the Split? Creative Differences and Individual Growth
High Up Entertainment’s official statement clarified that the duo parted ways due to differences in musical direction.
Choi Kyu Sung officially exited the agency in March 2025, and the company emphasized that the decision was mutual.
“As they made great music during their time together, we ask that you continue to cheer them on so that they can show you good things as they pursue their careers in their respective places,” said the agency.
Though breakups in creative partnerships often stir speculation, the respectful and amicable tone of the statement suggests this was a professional divergence rather than a personal rift.
After nearly two decades of collaboration, it’s not surprising that both artists may want to explore new musical territories.
What Comes Next for Rado and Choi Kyu Sung?
With Rado still at High Up Entertainment, it’s likely that he will continue to oversee STAYC’s musical direction and possibly develop new talent under the label.
His continued involvement in production could also lead to collaborations with a new generation of idols and perhaps even a rebranding of the High Up sound.
Choi Kyu Sung, on the other hand, leaves with one of the most respected résumés in K-pop history.
While his next steps have yet to be revealed, fans and industry insiders alike will be watching closely.
Whether he joins another agency, starts his own label, or works independently, there’s no doubt his work will continue to be in high demand.
A Lasting Legacy in K-Pop
The breakup of Black Eyed Pilseung marks the end of one of the most successful producing partnerships in South Korean music history.
Their influence can be heard in nearly every corner of modern K-pop—from the chart-topping anthems of girl groups to the nuanced storytelling in solo artists’ work.
Though they’re parting ways, their individual futures remain bright, and their joint legacy remains unmatched.
Whether together or apart, Rado and Choi Kyu Sung have already cemented their place as legends of the industry.
As K-pop continues to evolve, the sound and standards set by Black Eyed Pilseung will undoubtedly echo in generations of music to come.
