Tag: SM Entertainment

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SM Entertainment Launches New Label KRUCIALIZE

SM Entertainment‘s recent announcement of the launch of their new music label, KRUCIALIZE, has sent waves of excitement and speculation throughout the K-Pop community. The unveiling of KRUCIALIZE marks a significant expansion for SM Entertainment, one of the industry’s leading entertainment companies, as they venture into new territory with this innovative venture.

SM Entertainment Launches KRUCIALIZE

The official launch of KRUCIALIZE was heralded by a captivating trailer released across SM Entertainment’s official social media platforms, offering fans a tantalizing glimpse into the label’s aesthetic and vision. Additionally, the announcement hinted at an immersive experience for fans, with the promise of a physical location opening its doors later in May, further solidifying SM Entertainment’s commitment to engaging with their audience in innovative ways.

Accompanying the trailer was a visually stunning “label film,” presented as a short-film one-off drama. The cinematic offering provided further insight into the ethos and artistic direction of KRUCIALIZE, setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting new chapter in SM Entertainment’s storied history.

Why Does It Look Familiar?

In the midst of the excitement surrounding KRUCIALIZE’s launch, netizens have been quick to share their reactions and observations. Some eagle-eyed fans noted similarities between KRUCIALIZE’s star-like logo and the ‘Lonsdaleite’ logo associated with Baekhyun’s solo concert series, sparking speculation about potential connections between the label and SM Entertainment’s roster of artists. Additionally, references to past legal disputes involving EXO members, including Baekhyun, Xiumin, and Chen, have fueled further discussion about the implications of the new label within the context of SM Entertainment’s history and relationship with its artists.

While details surrounding KRUCIALIZE remain shrouded in mystery, revelations from the United States Patent Office shed light on SM Entertainment’s plans for the label. Records indicate that SM Entertainment filed trademark applications for KRUCIALIZE as far back as November 2023, signaling meticulous planning and strategic foresight behind the launch. However, the company has yet to make any official press announcements regarding the nature of the music label, leaving fans to speculate about potential implications, such as whether KRUCIALIZE will function as a subsidiary akin to Scream Records or if it will serve as a platform for emerging talent within the SM Entertainment ecosystem.

As anticipation mounts and speculation continues to swirl, SM Entertainment’s foray into the realm of KRUCIALIZE represents a bold and ambitious step forward for the industry powerhouse, promising exciting new opportunities for artists and fans alike. With the launch of KRUCIALIZE, SM Entertainment reaffirms its position as a pioneering force within the ever-evolving landscape of K-Pop, poised to shape the future of music and entertainment for years to come.

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RIIZE Finally Unveils Redesigned Light Stick

The unveiling of RIIZE’s official fanlight marks a significant moment for both the group and their devoted fanbase. But what are people saying about the redesigned light stick?

RIIZE Debuts Redesigned Light Stick

After an initial setback with the previous design, RIIZE has listened attentively to the feedback from their fans and returned with a revamped version that aims to capture the essence of their identity while ensuring it stands out uniquely in the K-pop landscape.

The journey to this unveiling was not without its challenges. When RIIZE first teased the release of their light stick with a “coming soon” poster, they were met with a wave of criticism from fans. Many voiced concerns that the design bore a striking resemblance to another group’s light stick, raising issues of originality and authenticity. Additionally, there were apprehensions about potential cultural insensitivity due to the hand gesture depicted in the initial design.

Responding swiftly to the feedback, RIIZE’s management company, SM Entertainment, made the commendable decision to reassess and redesign the light stick. They understood the importance of addressing fans’ concerns and ensuring that the final product resonated positively with their audience. Thus, the team diligently went back to the drawing board to craft a new design that would embody the spirit of RIIZE while steering clear of any unintended controversies.

The result of this collaborative effort is a sleek and stylish light stick that proudly bears the group’s name, RIIZE, prominently in the center, flanked by stars on either side. This design not only symbolizes the group’s rise to stardom but also serves as a beacon of unity for their fans, who eagerly await the opportunity to wave it proudly during concerts and events.

While opinions among netizens may remain somewhat divided regarding the new design, the overwhelming sentiment among fans is one of relief and satisfaction. They appreciate RIIZE’s commitment to addressing their concerns and applaud the group for delivering a light stick that reflects their unique identity and artistic vision.

As RIIZE prepares to embark on new musical endeavors, the unveiling of their official light stick serves as a tangible symbol of their unwavering bond with their fans and their collective journey towards continued success and growth in the dynamic world of K-pop.

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Kakao, SM Entertainment to Launch Idol-Themed Video Game ‘SM GAME STATION’

Earlier this month, Kakao Games and SM Entertainment issued a joint statement announcing the launch of a new mobile game titled SM GAME STATION. The announcement was made during a recent signing ceremony at Kakao’s headquarters in Seongsu-dong, Seoul. The ceremony was attended by SM Entertainment CEO Jang Cheol-hyuk and six representatives from Kakao Games, including CEO Han Sang-woo and Business Division Head Lim Young-jun.

Sources say SM GAME STATION will be a mobile collection game where players can “manage” top global K-pop artists from SM Entertainment. The game will transform the artists’ real activities and schedules into fun, engaging mini-games that allow players to interact with their favorite idols. This project is more than a venture into new digital realms—it’s also an opportunity to provide fans worldwide with innovative ways to enjoy their favorite artists’ content.

One of the unique features of the game is its digital photocard system. Players will be able to collect cards featuring the likenesses and performance outfits of SM’s artists. These cards can be customized with parts that highlight individual characteristics of each idol, allowing for a deeply personal and interactive experience. The game also plans to incorporate real-time activities, such as special events to celebrate idols’ birthdays and debut anniversaries, tying the game closely to the artists’ real lives.

[오딘: 발할라 라이징] 공식 인게임 트레일러 영상_Full ver.

The people behind SM GAME STATION

Metabora is leading the development of SM GAME STATION. Kakao Games handles global publishing and services, while SM Entertainment’s contribution to the process is the vast IP (intellectual property) of its idol groups. Kakao Games has a successful track record when it comes to launching video games, as proven by the release of ODIN: Valhalla Rising and Uma Musume Pretty Derby, so it’s expected to do the same when introducing SM’s artist IPs to a broader audience. The game is slated for a global release in the latter half of the year, with both companies expressing their excitement about providing a novel entertainment experience that combines their strengths in content creation and digital innovation.

Jang Cheol-hyuk, CEO of SM Entertainment, commented on the collaboration, stating, “I am pleased to offer fans of SM a variety of content consumption opportunities and plan to attempt more content mixing within the Kakao Group in the future.” 

Meanwhile, Han Sang-woo, CEO of Kakao Games, added, “We plan to provide a new entertainment experience in the global digital content market by combining our service and development capabilities with the strong content power of SM Entertainment.” – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Kakao Games and SM Entertainment have something very special in store for gamers. Source: KBS.

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TVXQ Announces 20th Anniversary Japan Tour

TVXQ, the legendary duo of K-pop, continues to reign supreme as they gear up to commemorate their remarkable journey with a 20th anniversary Japan tour that promises to be a spectacle of epic proportions. With SM Entertainment‘s recent announcement igniting fervor among fans, anticipation for the celebratory tour is at an all-time high.

SM Entertainment Announces TVXQ’s 20th Anniversary Japan Tour

Scheduled to commence in November, the tour will traverse the length and breadth of Japan, encompassing eight cities and a staggering total of 19 shows. From the vibrant energy of Saitama to the cultural richness of Kanagawa, each stop on the tour is poised to be a mesmerizing showcase of TVXQ’s unparalleled talent and enduring legacy.

As pioneers in the Japanese music scene, TVXQ has left an indelible mark with their iconic songs and electrifying performances. With their upcoming tour serving as a testament to their enduring popularity, the duo is set to deliver unforgettable experiences to their legion of dedicated fans who have supported them throughout their illustrious career.

The significance of this tour extends beyond mere performances; it serves as a poignant reminder of TVXQ’s profound impact on the Japanese music industry. Last year’s record-breaking nationwide tour, ‘TOHOSHINKI LIVE TOUR 2023 ~CLASSYC~’, solidified their status as trailblazers, with unprecedented performances at iconic venues such as the Tokyo Dome. Building upon this success, the duo is poised to once again captivate audiences with their signature charisma and musical prowess.

Furthermore, TVXQ’s recent conclusion of their ‘2024 TVXQ! CONCERT 20&2’ Asia tour in Jakarta further underscores their enduring popularity and global influence. From packed arenas to adoring fans, their concerts also serve as a testament to the unwavering devotion of their fanbase, affectionately known as Cassiopeia.

As TVXQ embarks on this momentous tour, they carry with them not just two decades of musical excellence but a legacy that continues to inspire and resonate with fans worldwide. With each electrifying performance, they also reaffirm their status as icons of the industry, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of fans for generations to come.

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SHINee Key Discusses SM’s Strict Education Program

Key has confirmed that SM Entertainment takes extra measures to avoid dating scandals. During an program focusing on his labelmate Doyoung, the SHINee member opened up about the strict education program he took as part of the company’s requirements.

Key Reveals SM’s Strict Education Program

NCT’s Doyoung made a captivating appearance on Episode 542 of MBC’s popular variety show “I Live Alone,” showcasing not only his culinary prowess but also his unique approach to relaxation. As he demonstrated his cooking skills and shared insights into his dining habits, viewers were treated to a glimpse of Doyoung’s everyday life beyond the spotlight of K-Pop stardom.

However, the lighthearted atmosphere took a turn when Doyoung was posed with a question that delved into the complexities of being a K-Pop idol and maintaining personal relationships. When asked if he ever felt envious of couples, considering the challenges he faces as an idol in pursuing romantic endeavors, Doyoung’s response elicited playful banter from the show’s cast members.

The cast’s humorous reaction, teasing Doyoung about the apparent contradiction in his answer, shed light on the intricacies of navigating personal matters within the confines of the highly scrutinized K-Pop industry. Their jesting commentary highlighted the delicate balance idols must strike between authenticity and discretion when addressing topics as sensitive as dating.

Drawing attention to SHINee’s Key, a seasoned veteran in the K-Pop world and Doyoung’s senior at SM Entertainment, the cast noted his tacit approval of Doyoung’s cautious response. Key’s mention of SM Entertainment’s “ideological education” program offered insights into the rigorous training and preparation undergone by artists to navigate media scrutiny and handle potentially contentious topics like romance.

Key’s acknowledgment of the enduring impact of such education underscored the ongoing challenges faced by artists in reconciling their public personas with their personal lives. Despite his extensive experience in the industry, Key’s ability to effortlessly deflect dating-related inquiries with nonchalant indifference showcased the enduring influence of SM Entertainment’s training regimen.

Doyoung’s appearance on “I Live Alone” not only provided fans with a candid glimpse into his life but also sparked meaningful reflections on the intricacies of fame, privacy, and the perpetual balancing act faced by K-Pop idols in navigating the complexities of personal relationships in the public eye.

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SM Entertainment Reportedly Facing Lawsuit Over SMTown LA Construction Costs

The saga surrounding SM Entertainment’s ambitious project, SMTown LA, has taken a turn for the legal as the company finds itself embroiled in controversy over unpaid construction costs. What began as a promising venture to establish a foothold in the international market and cater to the enthusiastic K-pop fanbase in Los Angeles has now morphed into a legal battle with potentially significant financial implications.

SM Entertainment Facing Legal Trouble over SMTown LA Construction

The initial excitement among LA K-pop fans and the city’s endorsement of the project, symbolized by the designation of “SM Entertainment Square,” now seems a distant memory as construction remains at a standstill. The revelation that SM Entertainment failed to fulfill its financial obligations to Pub Construction and other parties involved in the project has prompted legal action against the entertainment giant.

With construction costs left unpaid and numerous companies clamoring for reimbursement, the situation has escalated into a multi-faceted legal dispute. The architectural design firm responsible for crafting the plans for SMT LA has come forward, shedding light on the challenges they faced during the project’s tumultuous journey. Delays, design alterations, and a lack of payment have marred their experience, reflecting a broader pattern of mismanagement and negligence on SM’s part.

The implications extend beyond mere financial losses; safety concerns and regulatory violations have also plagued the construction process. SM’s failure to secure necessary permits and ensure the safety of pedestrians further compounds the company’s woes, casting doubt on its ability to execute large-scale projects responsibly.

The transition in SM’s management, particularly the shift to Kakao, has been cited as a contributing factor to the project’s troubles. Amidst this upheaval, Pub Construction CEO Chris Yi’s condemnation of SM’s behavior as “exploitative and detrimental” underscores the severity of the situation. His intention to escalate the matter to the Korean government signals a determination to hold SM accountable and prevent further harm to Korean companies involved in such ventures.

As legal proceedings unfold and scrutiny intensifies, SM Entertainment finds itself confronting not only financial liabilities but also reputational damage. The promise of SMTown LA has been overshadowed by allegations of mismanagement and non-payment, serving as a cautionary tale for companies venturing into international expansion without meticulous planning and execution.

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EXO Fans Call Out SM Entertainment For Excluding Chen in Latest Promos

It looks like SM Entertainment has once again found itself in hot water. EXO fans are calling out the company for excluding Chen from promotional content for the group’s latest videos.

SM Entertainment Under Fire for Excluding Chen From EXO Promos

The recent controversy surrounding the exclusion of Chen from new content shared by SM Entertainment has sparked discussions among EXO fans regarding the treatment of the idol since his marriage announcement in 2020.

EXO’s “Travel The World On A Ladder”, a popular series among fans, has recently come under scrutiny for not featuring Chen in the thumbnails of unseen clips shared online. While Chen appears in each video, his absence from the thumbnails has raised questions and concerns among fans about his treatment by the agency.

Fans have pointed out that this is not the first time Chen has been excluded from promotional materials or thumbnails for EXO-related content. Upon closer examination of past clips shared on YouTube, it becomes apparent that Chen is featured less frequently in thumbnails compared to other members. This discrepancy has left fans feeling disappointed and frustrated, as they believe Chen deserves equal representation and recognition as a member of EXO.

Why is SM Excluding Chen From Promotions?

The controversy surrounding Chen’s exclusion from promotional materials is compounded by the tumultuous events that have unfolded since his marriage announcement in 2020. Despite expressing his desire to continue his career as a member of EXO, Chen faced backlash and criticism from some fans, who demanded his departure from the group. This backlash was evident during an EXO event where Chen reportedly received the silent treatment from fans.

Despite the challenges he has faced, Chen has remained dedicated to EXO and his musical endeavors. His commitment to the group has been unwavering, even as he navigates the complexities of married life and fatherhood. However, the recent controversy surrounding his exclusion from promotional materials has reignited discussions about the treatment of Chen by SM Entertainment and EXO fandom.

As fans continue to express their support for Chen and demand equal treatment for all members of EXO, it remains to be seen how SM Entertainment will address the concerns raised by fans regarding Chen’s representation in future content.

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NCT Renjun Goes on Temporary Hiatus Due to Health Concerns

The announcement of Renjun’s temporary hiatus from NCT DREAM’s scheduled activities due to health concerns has sparked concern and support from fans worldwide.

SM Entertainment Issues Statement Regarding NCT DREAM Member Renjun’s Temporary Hiatus

SM Entertainment’s statement on April 13 regarding Renjun’s health highlighted the seriousness of the situation, citing a worsening of his physical condition as the reason for his temporary hiatus from group activities.

Renjun’s absence from the Japanese music show “Venue101” and the subsequent fan signing event in Shanghai on April 14 underscores the agency’s prioritization of the artist’s well-being. The decision to prioritize Renjun’s health and temporarily withdraw him from scheduled engagements reflects SM Entertainment’s commitment to the health and safety of its artists.

Fans of NCT DREAM have expressed understanding and support for Renjun during this challenging time, emphasizing the importance of his health above all else. The outpouring of well wishes and encouragement from fans also serves as a testament to Renjun’s impact as a beloved member of the group and highlights the strong bond between artists and their supporters.

Renjun’s absence serves as a reminder of the physical and mental toll that intensive schedules and demanding performance commitments can have on K-pop idols. The rigorous nature of the industry often places significant strain on artists, also underscoring the importance of prioritizing self-care and seeking appropriate medical attention when necessary.

As Renjun takes time to focus on his health and recovery, fans eagerly await updates on his condition and look forward to his return to the stage when he is ready. In the meantime, the NCT DREAM member’s absence also serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of health and well-being in the fast-paced world of K-pop, prompting reflection on the industry’s responsibility to support and protect its artists amidst the pressures of fame and performance.

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SM Entertainment Employee Exposes Chaos at the Company

SM Entertainment, one of the pillars of the K-pop industry, is currently facing a whirlwind of internal chaos, as revealed by its own employees on BLIND, an online community for company workers in South Korea. (To join this community, individuals must sign up using their corporate emails.) These employees have raised concerns about the company’s mismanagement, which has reportedly led to a significant wave of resignations.

An employee’s post titled “So (SM) is throwing away their employees and their artists” uncovered a series of issues, accusing the new executives of failing to effectively manage the label. One of the first topics the post tackles is the company’s KWANGYA 119 initiative. KWANGYA 119 allows fans to report issues affecting SM’s artists, such as copyright infringement, defamation, and ticket scalping. This initiative aims to address and fix issues while protecting artists from harmful or false information circulating in public domains. But the post claims it has been largely ineffective, leaving employees and artists feeling unprotected and neglected.

The post on BLIND continued to paint a grim picture of the current atmosphere at SM Entertainment. It alleged that after the departure of the company’s founder, Lee Soo Man, the new management implemented harsh policies, including threats of incentive cuts for late sales reporting. Moreover, the issue of obsessive fans harassing artists has been overlooked by the company. The employee wrote, “All of this has happened over the past few days, and now even ordinary employees are being doxxed on social media and are getting sworn at. Yet, how does this company not deal with any of this?”

HOW TO GO TO SM ENTERTAINMENT NEW BUILDING – LET’S GO TO KWANGYA!!!

SM Entertainment is staying silent

Another employee wondered whether SM’s management is oblivious or simply ignoring the chaos. Rumors suggest that between 70 to 80 employees resigned just this month, underlining the severity of the situation. Other BLIND users’ comments on this issue ranged from shock at the number of resignations to criticism of the company’s inability to handle the situation.

This turmoil isn’t just an internal matter. It also affects the public perception and operational capability of SM Entertainment. To outsiders, it may appear that the company is running smoothly. But insiders claim that it’s only a matter of time before these internal issues have a more visible impact on its operations.

As of this writing, SM Entertainment hasn’t commented on its employees’ posts on BLIND. No one knows how management reacted to the points that were raised in the posts. What we do know is that the need for strong, transparent leadership is more critical than ever as SM Entertainment navigates through these turbulent times. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: It seems like the once-mighty SM Entertainment is now in dire straits. Source: Billboard.

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NCT Ten Accidentally Reveals Impending SM Entertainment Departure

The recent speculation surrounding Ten’s potential SM Entertainment departure has stirred up curiosity and concern among fans. So is it true that the NCT member is finally leaving the company?

Ten Hints at Possible SM Entertainment Departure

The revelation came during Ten’s appearance on Episode 2 of Super Junior-D&E‘s YouTube channel “DNE comment ‘Hey, Come here,'” where he engaged in a candid conversation with former labelmates Eunhyuk and Donghae.

As former labelmates under SM Entertainment, the trio shared nostalgic memories, reflecting on their time together within the agency. However, the conversation took an unexpected turn when Donghae and Eunhyuk revealed that their fingerprints would be removed from SM Entertainment’s system, making it difficult for them to access the building. This disclosure raised questions about Ten’s future with the company, prompting Donghae to inquire if Ten, too, would be leaving.

The question posed by Donghae sparked various interpretations, leading to uncertainty about Ten’s intentions.

Is Ten Leaving SMEnt?

While it could be perceived as a query about Ten’s departure from SM Entertainment, it could also be interpreted as a concern about Ten’s continued involvement in their show due to their diverging career paths. Sensing the ambiguity, Ten responded diplomatically, expressing his commitment to maintaining his relationship with his former seniors while navigating potential changes in his career trajectory.

Eunhyuk further pressed the issue, seeking clarification on whether Ten was indeed planning to depart from SM Entertainment. In response, Ten explained that his understanding of the question was hindered by language barriers, emphasizing that Korean isn’t his first language. This clarification shed light on the potential misinterpretation of the conversation and underscored the importance of effective communication in such discussions.

The uncertainty surrounding Ten’s future with SM Entertainment has left fans eagerly awaiting further updates and clarification from the artist and the agency. As speculation mounts, fans remain supportive of Ten’s decisions, trusting that he will make choices that align with his career aspirations and personal goals. Amidst the speculation, Ten’s talent and contributions to the K-pop industry continue to be celebrated, with fans eagerly anticipating his future endeavors regardless of the path he chooses to take.

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