Tag: SM Entertainment

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EXO Chanyeol Teases Upcoming EP With New Recording Studio Photo

It looks like Chanyeol is already hard at work on his solo album. The EXO member has posted a new recording studio photo. The update comes shortly after SM Entertainment confirmed that Park Chanyeol will release a solo EP later this year.

Chanyeol Shares Recording Studio Photo After Debut EP Confirmation

Taking to Instagram Stories, Chanyeol posted a grainy photo showing himself in the studio during a possible recording. It confirms that the EXO member is already hard at work on his debut EP that was previously confirmed by SM Entertainment.

SM Entertainment’s detailed roadmap for the second and third quarters of 2024 has sent waves of excitement through the K-pop community. With a lineup that reads like a who’s who of the industry’s biggest names, fans have plenty to look forward to in the coming months.

The third quarter, in particular, promises a flurry of solo mini albums, with heavyweights like EXO’s Chanyeol, SHINee’s Key, RED VELVET’s Irene, and NCT’s Jaehyun all slated for releases. Each artist brings their own unique style and charisma to the table, ensuring a diverse range of music for fans to enjoy.

But the excitement doesn’t end there. The third quarter will also see the release of full albums from powerhouses like GIRL GENERATION’s Taeyeon and NCT WISH, adding even more anticipation to an already stacked lineup. With each release, SM Entertainment continues to solidify its reputation as a trailblazer in the industry, delivering top-tier talent and unparalleled creativity to fans around the world.

Although Chanyeol has yet to release a solo album, he has worked on several solo singles since debuting with EXO in 2012. He previously released the single “SSFW” in 2019 and “Good Enough” in 2023. Chanyeol has also embarked on a solo fan meeting tour across Asia that began in late 2023 and concluded last month.

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Kakao Acquisition of SM Entertainment Formally Approved by Korea Fair Trade Commission

The Korea Fair Trade Commission (FTC) has given its nod to the merger and acquisition (M&A) deal between Kakao and SM Entertainment, albeit with a watchful eye and certain conditions attached.

Korea Fair Trade Commission Approves Kakao SM Entertainment Acquisition

The approval, granted on May 2 KST, marks a significant development in the Korean music industry, as it brings together two major players under one umbrella. However, concerns regarding potential anti-competitive practices prompted the FTC to impose restrictions aimed at safeguarding market dynamics.

Kakao, renowned as a dominant force in digital music planning, production, and distribution through its flagship platform Melon, joined forces with SM Entertainment, a heavyweight in the realm of music production. The prospect of these two powerhouses merging raised eyebrows at the FTC, who feared that it could stifle competition and lead to monopolistic tendencies in the market.

The commission identified two plausible scenarios that could tilt the scales of competition unfavorably. Firstly, there’s the possibility of Kakao and SM Entertainment forming an exclusive partnership, leveraging Melon’s reach to corner the market on digital music distribution. Secondly, concerns were raised about Melon prioritizing content from its subsidiaries, potentially sidelining offerings from other entities and distorting fair competition.

The Future of SM Entertainment

To address these apprehensions, the FTC outlined stringent measures that Kakao must adhere to. Kakao is mandated to provide digital music and content to all competing streaming platforms upon request, barring any valid reasons for refusal. Moreover, the content must be furnished equitably and promptly to ensure a level playing field for all market participants.

In addition to these stipulations, a monitoring body will be instituted to keep a vigilant eye on Melon’s operations for a duration of three years. This watchdog entity will scrutinize Melon’s activities, specifically looking out for any signs of preferential treatment towards affiliated companies, thereby ensuring compliance with fair trade practices.

The FTC’s decision reflects a balancing act between fostering innovation and competition while preventing the consolidation of undue market power. By imposing these conditions, the commission aims to uphold the principles of fair competition and safeguard the interests of consumers and market players alike. As Kakao and SM Entertainment embark on this new chapter of collaboration, their adherence to these regulatory measures will be closely watched, shaping the trajectory of the Korean music industry in the years to come.

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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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