2NE1's CL referred to prosecutors for allegedly running unregistered agency

South Korean rapper CL, the leader of 2NE1, has been referred to prosecutors for allegedly running an unregistered agency.

The Yongshan Police Station in Seoul announced the news on Jan. 22, saying that CL and Very Cherry, the talent agency she established, have been referred without detention for violating the Popular Culture and Arts Industry Development Act.

Under the country's laws, operating an unregistered entertainment agency can result in imprisonment for two years or a 20 million won (P800,000) fine. The measure was put in place so the government can oversee contracts and protect the rights of artists.

After CL's contract with YG Entertainment expired, she created her one-person agency, Very Cherry, in 2020.

In September 2025, Korea JoongAng Daily reported that CL and actor Gang Dong-won were under investigation for running talent agencies without proper registration. This came after a citizen filed a complaint against the 2NE1 member and the actor.

Other celebrities were also tagged, including singers Ock Joo-hyun and Sung Si-kyung.

South Korean outlet TenAsia also reported that Very Cherry had been operating without proper registration for more than five years. 

A Very Cherry representative admitted that there was an administrative oversight. "The relevant registration process is currently being expedited," the agency said in September of last year.

The country's Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism gave the individuals involved until Dec. 31, 2025 to comply with the requirements.

Apart from CL, the police also referred the executives of Gang's AA Group to prosecutors. Meanwhile, the actor was cleared of allegations, with authorities stating he did not take part in managing the agency.