Before HYBE became a major player in the K-pop industry, its growth was mainly driven by three agencies: JYP Entertainment, SM Entertainment, and YG Entertainment. Here’s what these agencies have planned for fans this year.
TWICE “With YOU-th” Mood Film
JYP’s global dominance
JYP Entertainment is set to continue its global dominance in 2024, with its top groups Stray Kids and TWICE at the forefront. Stray Kids, having achieved four consecutive Billboard 200 number ones, will drop two new albums and embark on their third world tour. TWICE, as one of the biggest girl groups around, will make a comeback in February with their 13th EP With YOU-th. They’ll drop a pre-release single on February 2, and the EP itself will follow on February 23.
Aside from preparing for DAY6’s full group comeback, JYP is reportedly working to debut a new boy group. The agency is also set to launch groups born of international collaborations. NEXZ, from Nizi Project season two with Sony Music Japan, and VCHA, from the A2K project with Republic Records, will begin promoting in 2024. Finally, JYP’s partnership with Live Nation for North American performances will give its artists a big platform in the world’s largest music market.
2024 SM GLOBAL AUDITION
SM remains optimistic
In 2024, SM Entertainment’s artists will broaden their reach through diverse channels. The rookie group RIIZE, which has grown in popularity since its debut, is leading the charge. NCT is expected to continue their activities seamlessly despite the anticipated enlistment of some members. SM’s plan is to strengthen its global presence through major performances. These include Key’s solo concert, NCT 127’s third tour, SMTOWN LIVE in Tokyo Dome, and Ten’s first solo concert.
SM is also planning to launch new artists, starting with aespa’s yet-to-be-named sister group. The final team of the NCT system, the Japan-based NCT NEW TEAM, is set to debut after a wildly successful pre-debut tour in Japan.
Despite facing challenges like a change in ownership and an ongoing stock probe, SM achieved record earnings last year. However, its market leadership has weakened, and its revenue heavily depends on loyal fanbases. Even so, SM remains optimistic. In fact, the agency is planning a global audition in 2024 to discover new talent, demonstrating its focus on continued growth and innovation.
BABYMONSTER NEXT PHASE | YG Announcement
YG plans to go all-in
In 2024, YG Entertainment plans to go all-in on promoting BABYMONSTER, with a focus on global expansion. BABYMONSTER will release their second single “Stuck In The Middle” this February, followed by a mini-album in April. The group plans to build a strong industry presence by releasing new music every two months.
YG is also ramping up activities with its other groups. AKMU, celebrating its 10th anniversary, has something special planned for fans. BLACKPINK will continue promoting as a group under YG, but Jennie and Jisoo signed with other agencies for solo activities. Lisa and Rosé are expected to follow suit, but no official announcement has been made yet. Meanwhile, boy group TREASURE is expected to maintain a strong presence in Japan and Korea.
Which of these three agencies do you think will make the biggest splash this year? – K-Pop News Writer
Featured Image: JYP, SM, and YG have big things up their sleeves. Source: Icon Ape, Top PNG.