Jam Republic from 'Street Woman Fighter 2' signs contract to expand presence in Korea

Kirsten Dodgen of Jam Republic poses during a press conference for the second season of "Street Woman Fighter" at a movie theater in Seoul, Nov. 17, 2023. The international dance crew signed an exclusive contract with David Yong's Evergreen Korea. Newsis

Global dance crew Jam Republic, runners-up on the second season of "Street Woman Fighter," partnered with David Yong to expand their presence in Korea. Yong is a Singaporean businessman and artist who has made a name for himself here by investing in Attrakt, a South Korean record label.

In December, Yong's company, Evergreen Korea, signed an exclusive contract with Jam Republic, granting them the sole rights to manage the dance crew's activities within Korea. This strategic move aims to bolster Jam Republic's presence in the Korean entertainment landscape.

"Our collaboration with Jam Republic is beyond typical business relations. We are united in our goal to establish them as a global cultural icon through their unique blend of music and dance," Yong told the Hankook Ilbo, the sister paper of The Korea Times.

"Through this partnership, we will continue to support them in unleashing their diversity, innovation and creativity."

David Yong, top left, poses with Jam Republic's Kirsten, bottom left, Audrey, bottom right, and their manager Nick. Courtesy of Evergreen Korea

Consisting of members Kirsten, Latrice, Ling, Audrey and Emma, Jam Republic gained widespread recognition and acclaim during their stint on season 2 of "Street Woman Fighter," which concluded on Oct. 31, 2023.

"I still can't believe that 'Street Woman Fighter 2' is over ... I'm so happy and grateful to have been a part of this program," the crew's leader Kirsten said in a press conference at the end of the show.

Yong's interest in the Korean entertainment industry was first highlighted when he appeared on KBS Joy's "Ask Us Anything," last year, revealing his substantial financial resources and deep affection for Korean culture, particularly K-pop. His investment in Attrakt, the agency behind the debut of Fifty Fifty, further proved his commitment to the industry.

Apart from his business ventures, Yong is also exploring his artistic side. He has released a duet with MAMAMOO's Moonbyul and showcased his talent on comedian Lee Yong-jin's YouTube channel. Yong plans to diversify his involvement in both the business and entertainment sectors in the future.

Yoo Su-kyung (uu84@hankookilbo.com) is a reporter at The Hankook Ilbo, a sister publication of The Korea Times. This article, previously published in The Hankook Ilbo, has been translated as part of a news-sharing program.