What's behind K-pop agencies' Gangnam exodus?

“Things were so tough that there were times I hated it, but I wish I could go back to those days when we were at the height of our careers.” Wheein of K-pop girl group Mamamoo said this during a recent online livestream, breaking down in tears. The four members, who were pursuing individual activities, have reunited after four years and are currently on a world tour. Her emotions appeared to stem from nostalgia for the group's heyday. Debuting in 2014, Mamamoo won fans over with songs such as “Yes I Am” and “You're the Best,” which championed a confident image of women. As the group reunites, the agency that nurtured it has also undergone a transformation. A visit on Monday to the Guui Station area revealed the new headquarters of RBW, the agency behind Mamamoo. The building is imposing but its location is unexpected, outside both Gangnam and Hongdae, a neighborhood popular with young musicians. Instead, RBW has established its new base in Jayang-dong, Gwangjin District, in eastern Seoul — hardly an obvious choice for a K-pop agency. K-pop executives moving into former legal