SM Entertainment, established in 1989 as SM Studio by music producer Lee Soo-man,[1] is one of South Korea's largest and most influential entertainment companies[2] and a cornerstone of the modern K-pop industry.[3] Known for pioneering the idol training system, SM developed a structured approach to developing talent in singing, dancing, and performance that later became a blueprint for other agencies.[4] SM debuted its first artist, Hyun Jin-young, in 1990, who has been credited with introducing rapping and hip hop music to South Korean audiences.[5]
After changing its name to SM Entertainment in 1995,[6] the company debuted its first idol group, H.O.T., in 1996, whose successful formula became the model for many K-pop groups.[7] At the turn of the 21st century, amid industry-wide declines in domestic record sales, SM turned to other East Asian markets,[4] debuting soloist BoA. In 2002, BoA became the first Korean artist to top the Oricon Albums Chart, a feat that is credited with opening the door for other K-pop artists in the country.[8]
SM Entertainment currently has nine active groups, the oldest being TVXQ, which was established in 2003 before debuting in 2004 with the single "Hug",[10] and sold over 10 million albums cumulatively in South Korea in Japan in their first 10 years.[11]Super Junior debuted in 2005 as a 12-piece ensemble,[12] and have been dubbed "Kings of the Hallyu Wave" for their contributions to the Korean Wave.[13][14][15]Girls' Generation debuted in July 2007 as a nine-member ensemble with the single "Into the New World", following it up with their self-titled debut studio album that November.[16] Girls' Generation has been dubbed "The Nation's Girl Group".[17][18] and have been credited with shifting the public's focus back to female idols after the Korean music industry experienced an influx of male idol groups from 2002 to 2007.[19] In 2008, Shinee, a five-member boy band, debuted with the extended play Replay.[20] The group has been considered by some to be among the best singers and dancers in the K-pop industry[21] and has been bestowed the title "Princes of K-Pop" by multiple media outlets.[22][21]
Pushing into the 2010s, SM further expanded with its roster Exo, its first new group in four years. The multi-national boy band established two sub-units: Exo-K, which focused on the South Korean market, and Exo-M, which focused on China. Both groups debuted in April 2012 with the EP Mama, which was released in both Korean and Mandarin editions.[23] With the release of their debut album in 2013, Exo became the first Korean artist in 12 years to sell over one million copies of an album,[24] and by 2018 had become the first South Korean artist who debuted in the 21st century to sell 10 million albums cumulatively.[25] In 2014, seven years after their last girl group, SM established Red Velvet, debuting as four-member group with the song "Happiness". After adding a fifth member, they released their debut EP, Ice Cream Cake, in 2015.[26]
In 2016, SM launched what was called "K-pop's most experimental boy group to date", NCT.[27] Growing to a peak of 26 members,[28] NCT is frequently broken into smaller sub-units, each with different concepts.[29]NCT 2018 Empathy (2018) was the group's first release with all members as a full collective under one project.[30] As of June 2024, NCT has sold more than 40 million albums across all sub-units, making them SM Entertainment's best-selling act and one of the best-selling K-pop acts of all time.[31]Aespa, a four-member girl group, debuted in 2020 with the single "Black Mamba", launching along with the SM Culture Universe.[32] The group, which also includes digital avatars of each member, known "ae", is credited with popularizing the metaverse concept in K-pop.[33][34] Aespa's second EP, 2022's Girls, became the biggest-selling debut week for a K-pop girl group, recording over 1,610,000 pre-orders prior to its release.[35] SM's most recent group, Riize, was launched in 2023. The band's debut, Get a Guitar, became the second best-selling first week for a debut album in K-pop history, selling over one million copies.[36]
In addition to their currently active groups, SM has also announced three groups that have yet to debut: Dear Alice, SM's first British boy band,[37]Mytro, a five-member trot-idol group, and Hearts2Hearts, an eight-member girl group, all set to debut in February 2025.[38][37][39]
SM's artist roster includes several groups known as "sub-units", which are smaller groups spun-off from their main group and functioning as their own independent band.[68] Some sub-units are formed to target specific markets, languages, genres or performance styles not typically explored by the main group,[69] or due to fan demand because of members' shared chemistry.[68]NCT 127, a Seoul-based[70] spin off of NCT, debuted in 2016 with the EP NCT#127.[71] The group has been noted for their intricate choreography[72] and have been dubbed K-pop's "kings of noise music".[73]NCT Dream also debuted in 2016,[74] originally as a dynamic unit with a graduation system where members would leave the group when they turned 20, though this was later removed in 2020 in favor of a fixed lineup.[75]Oh!GG was launched in 2018, a sub-unit of the five members of Girls' Generation who opted to renew their contracts with SM the previous year.[76]
In addition to its groups, SM Entertainment is home to several soloists. While SM's solo roster does include artists that did not originally debut as part of a group, the vast majority of the company's roster of soloists consists of artists who are currently or were previously a member of one of SM's groups. SM's longest-tenured soloist, BoA, debuted in 2000 and has sold more than ten million albums.[94] BoA has become one of South Korea's most influential and prominent singers, being widely referred to as the "Queen of K-pop".[95][96] South Korean rock singer J-Min first debuted in Japan in 2007,[97] not releasing her Korean debut until 2014's Shine.[98]
Originating from SM's first idol group, H.O.T.,[7]Kangta debuted as a soloist in 2001 with the album Polaris.[99] He has gone on to become executive producer of Smash Hit, a production team of 20 composers under SM's Kreation Music Rights subsidiary.[100]Taeyeon of Girls' Generation debuted as a soloist in 2015 with the EP I.[101] Having sold over one million albums, Taeyeon was the best-selling female soloist in South Korea for the decade from 2011 to 2021.[102] Often praised for her vocal abilities,[103][104] Taeyeon was selected as the top K-pop vocalist in a 2015 survey of music industry officials.[105]Ryeowook, with his 2016 debut The Little Prince,[106] became the first artist to release under Label SJ, a sub-label established for Super Junior and its members in 2015.[107]
Exo's Kai debuted as a soloist in 2020 with his eponymous EP. Known as one of K-pop's best dancers,[108] Kai has also been labelled a fashion icon,[109][110] being called one of K-pop's biggest fashion influencers.[111] In 2021, Wendy became the first Red Velvet member to make a solo debut with her EP Like Water.[112] Noted for her four octave vocal range,[113] Wendy has been labelled as a "powerhouse vocalist"[114] with "exceptional vocal ability".[115]NCT leader[116]Taeyong became the group's first soloist with 2023's Shalala.[117] The EP, which was self-produced and self-written,[116] recorded pre-orders of over 500,000 copies on the day of its release.[118] The following year, fellow NCT members Ten,[119]Lucas,[120]Doyoung,[121]Jaehyun,[122] and Yuta[123] joined Taeyong in debuting as soloists. NCT member Mark[124] and former Riize member Seunghan[125] are scheduled to make their solo debuts in 2025.
The following tables include all current SM Entertainment artists that have been labelled by SM as having made (or are soon to make) their official debut as a soloist, typically with a full promotional cycle. It does not include artists who have only released digital singles, SM Station songs, or soundtrack songs.
SM Entertainment has established multiple project groups, which are groups that are usually formed on a temporary basis and for a specific purpose. Project groups typically disband after a short promotional period.[189]
SM Entertainment has three internal sub-labels that it refers to as "labels-in-company" (LIC).[236] The sub-labels host genres not generally found under SM's main roster, including classical,[237]contemporary R&B,[238] and EDM.[239]
ScreaM Records
ScreaM Records is an electronic dance music label[239] launched by SM in 2016, marketed as focusing on "performance that you enjoy together", as opposed to "performance that you see and listen to".[240] ScreaM Records roster of in-house DJs currently includes Imlay,[241]DJ Hyo[242] and Raiden,[243] among others. In addition to its in-house DJ roster, ScreaM releases collaborations with non-SM EDM DJs, producers, and artists.[244]
Krucialize is a contemporary R&B label launched by SM in 2024.[238] The label launched its first (and, as of January 2025, only) artist in October 2024 when singer Min Jiwoon debuted with the single "Sentimental Love".[253]
Kustomade
Kustomade is a label established by SM subsidiary Kreation Music Rights (KMR) in 2024.[254] It was launched as a successor to independent label 10X Entertainment, which KMR acquired in 2023.[255] Kustommade current represents artists such as R&B singer Yelo, who debuted on the label in October 2024 with the single "Naked",[256] and former Stray Kids member Kim Woojin, whose April 2024 EP I Like the Way was label's first release.[257]
Under its SM Studios holding company, SM Entertainment has additional artist rosters under three talent management companies: SM Culture & Contents, Mystic Story, and KeyEast. SM Studio was established in 2021 as part of a corporate restructuring which saw the three talent management companies, as well as printing and manufacturing company SM Life Design Group[259] and software company Dear U,[260] transferred to the newly established holding company.[261]
SM Culture & Contents (SM C&C) is a travel, production and talent agency owned by SM via the organization's SM Studios holding company.[261] The agency was established in April 2012 as part of SM's acquisition of travel agency BT&I.[262] SM C&C entered the talent management industry through its October 2012 acquisition of AM Entertainment,[263] and expanded into television and film production with its 2013 acquisition of Hoon Media.[264] As a talent agency, SM C&C currently manages artists such as actor Yoon Na-moo,[265] actress Bang Min-ah,[266] comedian Kang Ho-dong,[267] and television personality Jang Ye-won.[268]
Baljunso is an indie label established in 1991 by music executive Kang Byung-yong.[299] SM Entertainment acquired Baljunso in 2014 with the intent to use the label to revive hip-hop music and bands, which the company stated were considered non-mainstream in K-pop.[300] Artists who have been under Baljunso include hip-hop group Play the Siren, who debuted with the 2014 album Dream Drive,[301] and singer Jang Hye-jin, whose first release under the label was 2015's "Old Photo".[302]
Million Market
Million Market is an entertainment agency focusing on hip-hop and contemporary R&B.[303] The agency became an SM sub-label in 2018 when the company acquired a majority of Million Market's shares.[303] SM divested itself of Million Market in 2023 when the company's shares were acquired by BPM Entertainment.[304] At the time of the agency's acquisition by SM, its artists included singer-songwriter Suran, who released her 2017 debut EP Walkin' on the label,[305] R&B singer-songwriter Chancellor[306] and rapper Penomeco.[307] During its time under SM's control, the agency's roster expanded to include artists such as rapper MC Mong,[308] singer-songwriter Jiselle,[309] and vocal duo 2F.[310]
Million Market artists active during period as SM sub-label (2018–2023)
^The following list includes all former SM Entertainment artists that had been declared by SM to have made their official debut as a soloist. It does not include artists who only released digital singles or soundtrack songs.
^Also credited as "Hyun Jin-young & Wawa", "Wawa" being the name of his backup dance crew.[200]
^Hero Jaejoong left TVXQ in 2009[40] but remained in litigation with SM Entertainment over contract validity until both parties settled in 2012.[41]
^Micky Yoochun left TVXQ in 2009[42] but remained in litigation with SM Entertainment over contract validity until both parties settled in 2012.[41]
^Xiah Junsu left TVXQ in 2009[43] but remained in litigation with SM Entertainment over contract validity until both parties settled in 2012.[41]
^Eunhyuk left SM Entertainment in 2023 but remains a member of Super Junior.[44]
^Donghae left SM Entertainment in 2023 but remains a member of Super Junior.[44]
^ abKyuhyun joined Super Junior in 2006.[211] He left SM Entertainment in 2023 but remains a member of Super Junior.[44]
^Hangeng left Super Junior in 2009[45] but remained in litigation with SM Entertainment over contract validity until both parties settled in 2011.[46]
^Kangin left Super Junior in 2019 but remains with SM Entertainment.[47]
^Kibum last performed with Super Junior in 2009 but remained a member until 2015 when he left SM Entertainment.[48]
^Sunny left SM Entertainment in 2023 but remains a member of Girls' Generation.[49]
^ abTiffany left SM Entertainment in 2017 but remains a member of Girls' Generation.[50]
^Sooyoung left SM Entertainment in 2017 but remains a member of Girls' Generation.[50]
^ abSeohyun left SM Entertainment in 2017 but remains a member of Girls' Generation.[50]
^Jessica left Girls' Generation in 2014[51] but remained with SM Entertainment until 2015.[52]
^ abOnew left SM Entertainment in 2024 but remains a member of Shinee.[221]
^ abTaemin left SM Entertainment in 2024 but remains a member of Shinee.[209]
^Lee Yeon-jung (July 10, 2012). 슈퍼주니어, 대만 음악차트 110주 연속 1위 [Super Junior topped Taiwanese music chart for 110 consecutive weeks]. Yonhap News Agency (in Korean). Archived from the original on February 5, 2020. Retrieved November 23, 2024.
^Kim Sung-won (November 20, 2017). 슈주, 신곡 '블랙수트' 대만-홍콩-싱가포르 KKbox 부동의 1위 [Suju's new song 'Black Suit' immovable from no 1 in Taiwan-Hong Kong-Singapore KKbox]. Sports Chosun (in Korean). Archived from the original on April 27, 2021. Retrieved November 23, 2024.
^2010년 올해의 10대 가수와 가요 (in Korean). Gallup Korea. November 17, 2010. Archived from the original on December 31, 2010. Retrieved November 23, 2024.
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^뉴스 인용 (in Korean). Mediaus. November 13, 2010. Archived from the original on May 25, 2013.
^Cho, Hye-jin (2022-07-08). "에스파, 미니 2집 선주문만 161만장...'K팝 걸그룹 최고기록' [공식입장]" [Aespa, pre-ordered 1.61 million mini 2nd album... 'K-pop girl group best record']. Xsports News (in Korean). Archived from the original on 2022-07-20. Retrieved 2024-11-27.
^ abcKwak, Jeong-su (2013-07-24). "공정위 결정에 JYJ "슈퍼갑 SM에 경종 울려"" [JYJ: "Super Gap SM is the Alarm Bell" on Fair Trade Commission's Decision]. The Hankyoreh (in Korean). Archived from the original on 2017-09-13. Retrieved 2024-11-23.
^Choi, Hee-jung (2024-11-15). "'동방신기 출신' 시아준수, 女 BJ에 협박당해...8억 뜯겼다" ['Former TVXQ member' Xia Junsu, blackmailed by female BJ... 800 million won extorted]. Newsis (in Korean). Retrieved 2024-11-23.
^ abcGong, Young-ju (2023-07-14). "[가요]슈주 은혁·동해·규현, 18년 만에 SM 떠난다..."그룹 활동은 함께"" [Super Junior's Eunhyuk, Donghae, and Kyuhyun to Leave SM After 18 Years... "Group Activities Together"]. YTN star (in Korean). Archived from the original on 2023-07-14. Retrieved 2024-11-16.
^Kim, Won-gyeom (2011-09-27). "SM·한경 측 "상호합의로 소송 종결" 공식 입장" [SM and Hangeng's official position: "Lawsuit ended through mutual agreement"]. The Dong-a Ilbo (in Korean). Archived from the original on 2025-01-05. Retrieved 2024-11-24.
^Hwang, Hye-jin (July 11, 2019). "슈퍼주니어 측 "강인 자진탈퇴 의사 존중, 전속계약 지속"(공식)" [Super Junior's side: "We respect Kangin's voluntary withdrawal, and continue the exclusive contract" (Official)]. Newsen. Archived from the original on 28 December 2019. Retrieved 16 November 2024.
^Aespa debut:Hwang, Mi-hyeon (2020-11-02). "SM 신인 걸그룹 에스파, 17일 데뷔 확정...독특 세계관" [SM's new girl group Aespa confirmed to debut on the 17th... Unique worldview]. News1 (in Korean). Retrieved 2024-11-16. Aespa debut album: Moon, Wan-sik (2021-09-14). "에스파, 첫 미니앨범 'Savage' 10월 5일 발매..6곡 수록[공식]" [Aespa first mini album 'Savage' to be released on October 5th.. 6 songs included [Official]]. Star News Korea (in Korean). Retrieved 2024-11-16.
^Park, Soo-in (2016-07-10). "NCT 127 전곡 음원 공개, 보너스트랙까지 총 7곡 수록" [NCT 127's full music source released, including bonus tracks, a total of 7 songs included]. The Korea Herald (in Korean). Retrieved 2024-12-29.
^ abJeong, Ji-won (2018-12-31). "SM "中신인 웨이션브이, 2019년 1월 데뷔확정"...NCT 대거 합류 [공식입장]" [SM "Chinese Rookie WayV Confirmed to Debut in January 2019"... NCT Joins in Large Numbers]. OSEN (in Korean). Retrieved 2024-11-16.
^Park, Soo-in (2016-07-10). "NCT 127 전곡 음원 공개, 보너스트랙까지 총 7곡 수록" [NCT 127 All songs released, including bonus tracks, a total of 7 songs included]. The Korea Herald (in Korean). Archived from the original on 2023-01-31. Retrieved 2024-11-16.
^Lee, Deok-haeng (2019-06-28). ""엑소 新 유닛 출격"...세훈&찬열, 7월 22일 'What a life' 발매 [공식입장]" ["EXO New Unit Attack"... Sehoon & Chanyeol, 'What a life' will be released on July 22]. XsportsNews (in Korean). Retrieved 2024-11-16.
^Yoon, Sang-geun (2023-03-27). "'NCT 유닛' 도재정 4월 17일 'Perfume' 데뷔 확정[공식]" ['NCT Unit' Do Jae Jung Confirmed to Debut with 'Perfume' on April 17]. Star News Korea (in Korean). Archived from the original on 2023-04-04. Retrieved 2024-11-16.
^ abKim, Yong-wan (2023-08-21). "[코스닥] 에스엠, 21일 강타 2집 '사계' 발매" [SM, 2nd album 'Siegye' will be released on the 21st] (in Korean). MoneyToday. Archived from the original on 2022-09-20. Retrieved 2024-11-16 – via Naver.
^Jeong, Ji-won (2018-11-21). ""감각적 음악세계"...샤이니 키, 솔로앨범 4곡 작사 참여" ["Sensational Music World"... SHINee Key Participates in Lyrics for 4 Songs in Solo Album]. OSEN (in Korean). Retrieved 2024-11-16.
^"슈퍼주니어 측 "성민, 11월 첫 솔로앨범 발매"(공식)" [Super Junior's side: "Sungmin to release first solo album in November" (Official)]. Newsen (in Korean). 2019-11-04. Retrieved 2024-11-16.
^Lee, Min-ji (2020-03-06). "엑소 수호, 3월30일 데뷔 첫 솔로 앨범 '자화상' 발매(공식)" [EXO Suho to release first solo album 'Self-Portrait' on March 30 (Official)]. Newsen (in Korean). Archived from the original on 2023-06-09. Retrieved 2024-11-16.
^Lina debut: Lee, Eun-jung (2014-07-25). "천상지희 린아, 뮤지컬 배우 장승조와 11월 결혼" ["Cheonsangjihui" Lina to marry musical actor Jang Seung-jo in November]. Yonhap News Agency (in Korean). Retrieved 2024-11-23. Lina represented by SM Entertainment: Ahn, Yoon-ji (2023-03-06). "'스위니토드' 린아, 뮤지컬 퀸의 존재감.."소중하고 아름다웠다"" ['Sweeney Todd' Lina, the presence of the musical queen... "Precious and beautiful"]. Star News Korea (in Korean). Archived from the original on 2025-01-05. Retrieved 2024-11-23.
^Park, Eun-kyung (2011-03-16). "최종윤 "선악 공존 한석규 선배 롤모델이죠"" [Choi Jong-yun: "The coexistence of good and evil is my senior Seok-gyu Han's role model"]. Kyunghyang Shinmun (in Korean). Archived from the original on 2025-01-05. Retrieved 2024-11-24.
^Ha, Su-jeong (2022-09-30). "신예 이철우, 아이스하키 선수된다..'얼어죽을 연애따위' 캐스팅 [공식]" [Rookie Lee Cheol-woo becomes ice hockey player.. Casting for 'Love That Will Make You Frozen to Death']. The Chosun Ilbo (in Korean). Archived from the original on 2024-12-01. Retrieved 2024-11-22.
^Jeong, Ji-won (2016-08-26). "이철우·기도훈, SM엔터과 전속계약 체결" [Lee Cheol-woo and Ki Do-hoon sign exclusive contracts with SM Entertainment]. Xsports News (in Korean). Archived from the original on 2024-12-01. Retrieved 2024-11-22.
^Kim, Ye-eun (2022-12-09). "SM루키즈 출신 라미, SM 소속 배우 데뷔...아이돌 아닌 연기자로 [엑's 이슈]" [Lami from SM Rookies debuts as an actor affiliated with SM... As an actor, not an idol]. Xsports News (in Korean). Archived from the original on 2022-12-09. Retrieved 2024-11-16.
^"SM 엔터테인먼트의 역사 3화: SM의 계속되는 실패" [SM Entertainment's History Part 3]. ChannelDOC (in Korean). 2024-08-04. Archived from the original on 2024-09-13. Retrieved 2024-11-19.
^Seo, Jeong-min (2018-08-13). "H.O.T., 17년 만에 단독공연 한다" [H.O.T. to hold solo concert for the first time in 17 years]. The Hankyoreh (in Korean). Archived from the original on 2018-08-13. Retrieved 2024-11-19.
^Milk debut: Hong, Min-ki (2020-07-27). "서현진 밀크 시절, '청순+순수' 뚝뚝!" [Seo Hyun-jin's Milk days, 'pure + innocent' dripping!]. The Chosun Ilbo (in Korean). Retrieved 2024-11-19. Milk disbandment: Seo, Hyun-jin (2015-06-29). "'런닝맨' 서현진, 하하 "'밀크' 시절 진짜 소녀였는데"하자 "지금은?"...'폭소'" ['Running Man' Seo Hyun-jin, Haha says, "I was a real girl during the 'Milk' days", "What about now?"... 'burst of laughter']. The Dong-a Ilbo (in Korean). Retrieved 2024-11-19.
^Black Beat debut: Park, Young-woong (2011-07-27). "'보컬선생·안무가' SM그룹 블랙비트 요즘 뭐하나" [What is SM Group Black Beat, the 'Vocal Teacher and Choreographer' doing these days?]. Star News Korea (in Korean). Retrieved 2024-11-19. Black Beat disbandment:"Black Beat Mnet Profile". Mnet. Archived from the original on 2013-12-24. Retrieved 19 November 2024.
^Jo, Eun-byeol (2023-09-01). "[단독] 슈주 은혁-동해, 오드엔터 설립...공동대표됐다! '전참시' 출연 원용선 매니저도 합류" [Super Junior Eunhyuk and Donghae establish Odd Entertainment... Become co-CEOs! Won Yong-seon, the manager who appeared on 'Full House', also joins]. Sports Seoul (in Korean). Archived from the original on 2024-09-30. Retrieved 2024-11-19.
^Kim, Min-ji (2016-04-14). "김정모, 김희철·휘인과 다정한 인증샷 "흔치않은 락발라드... 드디어 공개되는군요"" [Kim Jung-mo, Kim Hee-chul, and Wheein's affectionate certification shot "Uncommon rock ballad... It's finally being released"]. Seoul Shinmun (in Korean). Retrieved 2024-11-24.
^Kim Heechul & Kim Jungmo debut: Oh, Je-il (2016-12-28). "김희철·김정모 'M&D', 첫 미니앨범 '가내수공업'" [Kim Hee-chul and Kim Jung-mo 'M&D', first mini album 'Cottage Industry']. Newsis (in Korean). Archived from the original on 2025-01-05. Retrieved 2024-11-24. Kim Heechul & Kim Jungmo disband: Kim, Soo-kyung (2019-07-19). "트랙스 정모, SM 계약 만료 후 홀로서기 "'복숭아'로 새 출발" 텐아시아" [Trax Jungmo, after SM contract expires, stands alone, "New start with 'Peach'"]. The Korea Economic Daily (in Korean). Retrieved 2024-11-24.
^Jo, Yoon-sun (2011-07-04). "천상지희 4년만에 컴백...'다나&선데이'로 유닛활동" [The Grace makes a comeback after 4 years... Unit activities with "Dana & Sunday"]. The Dong-a Ilbo (in Korean). Archived from the original on 2024-12-31. Retrieved 2024-12-30.
^ abcdLee, Seung-hoon (2024-01-08). "백현·시우민·첸, 독립 레이블 설립.."엑소 활동은 SM" [공식]" [Baekhyun, Xiumin, Chen establish independent label... "EXO activities under SM" [Official]]. Star News Korea (in Korean). Archived from the original on 2024-01-25. Retrieved 2024-11-16.
^S debut: Shim, Nam-su (2010-10-13). "강타-신혜성-이지훈,그룹'S'결성..."따로 또같이"" [Kangta-Shin Hye Sung-Lee Ji Hoon, Group 'S' Formed... "Apart But Together"]. The Chosun Ilbo (in Korean). Archived from the original on 2024-12-01. Retrieved 2024-11-23. S 2014 activity: Lee, Jeong-hyeok (2014-10-14). "강타-신혜성-이지훈의 그룹 S, 11년 만에 컴백. 27일 앨범 발매" [Group S of Kangta, Shin Hye Sung, and Lee Ji Hoon, Comeback after 11 Years. Album Release on the 27th]. The Chosun Ilbo (in Korean). Retrieved 2024-11-23.
^"국제 그룹 강타 앤 바네스, 나라의 벽 넘는 시도" [International group 'Kangta & Vaness' attempts to overcome national barriers]. No Cut News. 2006-05-10. Archived from the original on 2025-01-05. Retrieved 2024-11-26.
^Kang, Young-su (2006-06-09). "'강타&바네스' 亞공략 시동" ['Kangta & Vaness' Asian conquest begins]. Kyunghyang Shinmun (in Korean). Retrieved 2024-11-26.
^SM the Ballad debut: Baek, Ji-eun (2020-08-02). "SM더발라드, 22일 앨범 수록곡 1분 미리듣기 서비스 시작" [SM The Ballad, 1-minute preview service for album tracks begins on the 22nd]. The Chosun Ilbo (in Korean). Archived from the original on 2024-12-01. Retrieved 2024-11-23. SM the Ballad 2014 activity: Lee, Sang-hyun (2014-02-04). "'SM 더 발라드' 2집 '브레스' 13일 발매" ['SM The Ballad' 2nd Album 'Breath' to be Released on the 13th]. Yonhap News Agency (in Korean). Retrieved 2024-11-23.
^Lee, Jae-ik (2019-02-23). "가요계의 교차로, 현진영...흐린 기억 속의 'K힙합 원조'" [Crossroads of the music industry, Hyun Jin-young... 'Original K-Hip-Hop' in the hazy memory]. The Hankyoreh (in Korean). Archived from the original on 2025-01-05. Retrieved 2024-11-24.
^Hyun Jin-young debut: Jo, Yoon-sun (2021-06-01). "현진영, SM엔터 1호 가수의 후회 "이때로 다시 돌아갈 수만 있다면..."" [Hyun Jin-young, SM Entertainment's first singer's regret "If only I could go back to this time..."]. The Chosun Ilbo (in Korean). Archived from the original on 2021-06-01. Retrieved 2024-11-21. Hyun Jin-young depart SM:"SM 엔터테인먼트의 역사 3화: SM의 계속되는 실패" [SM Entertainment's History Part 3]. ChannelDOC (in Korean). 2024-08-04. Archived from the original on 2024-09-13. Retrieved 2024-11-19.
^ abYoo Young-jin debut: Kim, Soo-jung (2018-07-18). "유영진, 미인증 오토바이 운행 사과 "어리석은 행동, 깊이 사죄"" [Yoo Young-jin apologizes for driving an unlicensed motorcycle, "Foolish behavior, deep apology]. No Cut News. Archived from the original on 2018-07-18. Retrieved 2024-11-21. Yoo Young-jin depart SM: Baek, Ji-eun (2023-03-14). "[SC초점] 카카오 잡은 SM, 보아·동방신기→엑소·에스파 어떻게 되나" [SM caught Kakao, what will happen to BoA, TVXQ → EXO and Espa?]. The Chosun Ilbo (in Korean). Archived from the original on 2023-03-24. Retrieved 2024-11-21.
^Jang Na-ra debut:"서인국 장나라 호흡, 이상우 "장나라 SM 출신...내가 발탁했다"" [Seo In Guk and Jang Na Ra's Breath, Lee Sang Woo "Jang Na Ra is from SM... I Chosen Him"]. The Korea Economic Daily (in Korean). 2015-05-22. Retrieved 2024-11-21. Jang Na-ra debut album: Hwang, Chae-hyeon (2021-09-23). "어반자카파, 장나라 '고백' 리메이크" [Urban Zakapa, Jang Na-ra's 'Confession' Remake]. Kyunghyang Shinmun (in Korean). Retrieved 2024-11-21. Jang Na-ra depart SM: Bae, Dong-jin. "신개념 '어린이 방송국' 기대해주세요" [Please look forward to the new concept of 'children's broadcasting station']. Busan Ilbo (in Korean). Retrieved 2024-11-21.
^Moon Hee-joon debut:"[음반] 문희준 'Alone'" [[Album] Moon Hee-Jun 'Alone']. Maeil Business Newspaper (in Korean). 2001-10-26. Retrieved 2024-11-21. Moon Hee-joon depart SM: Kang, Seok-bong (2004-12-08). "문희준 SM결별 홀로서기" [Moon Hee-jun leaves SM and stands alone]. Kyunghyang Shinmun (in Korean). Retrieved 2024-11-21.
^Chu Ga-yeoul debut:"인천종합문화예술회관, 싱어송라이터 추가열 '모닝콘서트' 개최" [Incheon Arts Center, Singer-songwriter Chu Ga-yeol to hold 'Morning Concert']. News1 (in Korean). 2013-02-21. Retrieved 2024-11-21. Chu Ga-yeoul SM tenure: Park, Soo-yoon (2018-08-07). "가수 추가열, 25일 의정부서 콘서트" [Singer Joo Ga-yeol, concert in Uijeongbu on the 25th]. Yonhap News Agency (in Korean). Retrieved 2024-11-21.
^Henry debut: Oh, Se-hoon (2013-06-07). "'SM 솔로' 헨리, 자작곡 등 6곡 수록된 미니앨범 '트랩'으로 활동 시작" ['SM Solo' Henry Begins Activities with Mini Album 'Trap' Containing 6 Songs Including Self-Composed Songs]. The Dong-A Ilbo (in Korean). Retrieved 2024-11-21. Henry depart SM: Lee, Eun-jung (2018-04-30). "헨리, 10년 몸담은 SM과 결별..."1인 기획사 설립"" [Henry, parting ways with SM after 10 years... "Establishing a one-man agency"]. Yonhap News Agency (in Korean). Archived from the original on 2021-06-24. Retrieved 2024-11-21.
^Jang, Da-hee (2022-04-08). "엑소 레이, SM 떠난다 "헤어질 때가 됐다...10년 동안 감사" [전문]" [EXO Lay Leaves SM "It's Time to Break Up... Thank You for 10 Years"]. SpoTV News (in Korean). Archived from the original on 2024-01-14. Retrieved 2024-11-16.
^Kwon, Hye-mi (2023-10-18). "엑소 디오, SM과 11월 전속계약 종료..."오랜 매니저와 독립" [공식]" [EXO D.O., SM's exclusive contract ends in November... "Independent from long-time manager" [Official]]. Ilgan Sports (in Korean). Archived from the original on 2023-10-23. Retrieved 2024-11-16.
^Choi, Yoon-jung (2022-09-05). "엑소 시우민, 첫 솔로 앨범 발매...'브랜드 뉴'" [EXO Xiumin, first solo album release... 'Brand New']. Newsis (in Korean). Retrieved 2024-11-21.
^Park Hee-von SM debut and departure: Koh, Hyun-sil (2012-09-20). ""새로운 경험에 대한 호기심에 여기까지 왔죠"" ["I came here out of curiosity for new experiences."]. Yonhap News Agency (in Korean). Retrieved 2024-11-24. Park Hee-von active SM actor: Kim, Hyung-woo (2007-10-19). "SM 신예 4총사 박희본-정민진-최종윤-김보미, KBS 드라마시티 총출동" [SM's new 4 musketeers Park Hee-von, Jung Min-jin, Choi Jong-yoon, and Kim Bo-mi, KBS Drama City all out]. Newsen. Retrieved 2024-11-24.
^Heo, Ji-young (2023-07-13). "[공식] '이수만 공개 지지' 김민종, 이수만 없는 SM과 결별" [Kim Min-jong, who publicly supported Lee Soo-man, breaks up with SM without Lee Soo-man]. Seoul Economic Daily (in Korean). Archived from the original on 2024-12-04. Retrieved 2024-11-24.
^Ki Do-hoon SM debut: Kim, Young-jin (2016-08-26). "신예 이철우·기도훈, SM엔터와 전속계약 체결 "발전된 활약 보여줄것"" [Rookie Lee Cheol-woo and Ki Do-hoon Sign Exclusive Contracts with SM Entertainment "Will Show Improved Performance"]. Asia Today (in Korean). Retrieved 2024-11-24. Ki Do-hoon SM departure: Lee, Dah-ye (2021-09-22). "박인환·기도훈·김범진, 포스타 컴퍼니에서 새로운 출발 "좋은 결과 낼 수 있을 것"" [Park In-hwan, Ki Do-hoon, and Kim Beom-jin, a new start at Posta Company, "We will be able to produce good results"]. Asia Today (in Korean). Archived from the original on 2024-12-01. Retrieved 2024-11-24.
^ abJo, In-woo (2016-12-28). "SM의 첫 EDM 어떨까, 6일 'Wave' 발표" [What about SM's first EDM, 'Wave' to be released on the 6th]. Newsis (in Korean). Retrieved 2024-12-31.
^ ab"소녀시대 효연, DJ로 변신...18일 데뷔싱글 '소버' 발매" [Girls' Generation Hyoyeon transforms into a DJ... Release of ber' on the 18th]. MBC News (in Korean). 2018-04-12. Retrieved 2024-11-16.
^ abLee, Deok-haeng (2019-07-25). "레이든, SM과 전속계약→8월 2일 싱글 'The Only' 공개...아이린 피처링 참여 [공식입장]" [Raiden, exclusive contract with SM → Single 'The Only' released on August 2nd... Irene featuring participation]. XsportsNews (in Korean). Retrieved 2024-11-16.
^Moon, Soo-jung (2016-04-26). "SM EDM레이블 첫 곡 '웨이브', 다음달 6일 공개...f(x) 루나 출격" [SM EDM Label's First Song 'Wave' to be Released on the 6th of Next Month...f(x) Luna to Appear]. Kukmin Ilbo (in Korean). Archived from the original on 2025-01-05. Retrieved 2024-12-31.
^Mar Vista debut: A-ram, Jeon (2020-08-25). "엑소 세훈&찬열 '10억뷰' 리믹스 버전 28일 공개 [공식입장]" [EXO Sehun & Chanyeol '1 Billion Views' Remix Version to be Released on the 28th]. XsportsNews (in Korean). Archived from the original on 2024-12-31. Retrieved 2024-11-22. Mar Vista as an SM artist: Kim, Ye-na (2024-09-05). "SM 댄스뮤직 레이블 소속 DJ 마비스타, 오늘(5일) 새 싱글 발매" [DJ Mar Vista from SM Dance Music Label releases new single today (5th)]. Xsports News (in Korean). Archived from the original on 2024-12-31. Retrieved 2024-11-22.
^Kwak, Hyung-soo (2020-06-12). "SM엔터, 서울시향과 MOU 체결...클래식 레이블 설립 [공식]" [SM Entertainment signed an MOU with Seoul... Establishing a classic label [official]]. The Dong-a Ilbo (in Korean). Archived from the original on 2022-01-27. Retrieved 2024-12-31.
^Lee, Jae-hoon (2021-07-05). "이수만 "SM, 콘텐츠 기업...혼합 장르 'CAWMAN' 선보일 것"" [Lee Soo-man: "SM, a content company... will present mixed genre 'CAWMAN'"]. Newsis (in Korean). Archived from the original on 2024-12-31. Retrieved 2024-12-31.
^Sun, Mi-kyung (2024-10-08). "YELO, 2년 7개월만 신곡 'NAKED' 기대하는 이유" [YELO, the reason to look forward to the new song 'NAKED' after 2 years and 7 months]. The Chosun Ilbo (in Korean). Archived from the original on 2025-01-03. Retrieved 2025-01-02.
^Yelo debut: Lee, Hye-min (2022-03-22). "'군검사 도베르만' 3번째 OST 이그나이트 발매" ['Military Inspector Doberman' 3rd OST Ignite Release]. Newsis (in Korean). Archived from the original on 2025-01-02. Retrieved 2025-01-02. Yelo Kustomade release: Moon, Wan-sik (2024-10-04). "보컬리스트 YELO(옐로), 9일 싱글 'NAKED' 발매" [Vocalist YELO to release single 'NAKED' on the 9th]. Star News Korea (in Korean). Retrieved 2025-01-02.
^Kim, Eun-gu (2012-04-16). "SM, 여행업체 BT&I 인수...K팝→K컬처 사업확대 기반 마련" [SM acquires travel company BT&I...K-pop→K-culture business expansion foundation]. E-Daily (in Korean). Archived from the original on 2021-08-13. Retrieved 2025-01-02.
^Kim, Mi-ri (2012-09-19). "SM C&C, 장동건·김하늘 소속사 AM엔터 흡수합병" [SM C&C to merge with AM Entertainment, the agency of Jang Dong-gun and Kim Ha-neul]. MyDaily (in Korean). Retrieved 2025-01-02.
^Kim, Geon-woo (2013-03-14). "SM C&C, '남자의 자격' 제작사 흡수합병(상보)" [SM C&C, 'Qualifications of Men' production company merged]. Money Today (in Korean). Archived from the original on 2025-01-05. Retrieved 2025-01-02.
^Son, Jeong-bin (2016-12-28). "김여진·윤소호 등 뮤지컬 배우 10명, SM C&C과 계약" [10 musical actors including Kim Yeo-jin and Yoon So-ho sign contracts with SM C&C]. Newsis (in Korean). Retrieved 2025-01-02.
^Lee, Hyun-woo (2012-08-17). "강호동, SM과 전속계약 "연내 연예계 컴백"" [Kang Ho-dong signs exclusive contract with SM, "Comeback in entertainment industry within the year"]. Maeil Business Newspaper (in Korean). Archived from the original on 2025-01-02. Retrieved 2025-01-02.
^Yoon, Sang-geun; Bae, Myunghan; Jo, Sung-Hyun; Shin, Jang-Kyoo; Son, Dong; Won, Chul-Ho; Jeong, Hyun-Min; Lee, Jung-Hee; Kang, Shin-Won (2020-12-09). "장예원, SM C&C 전속계약..강호동X신동엽 한솥밥[공식]" [Jang Ye-won, SM C&C exclusive contract..Kang Ho-dong X Shin Dong-yup from the same pot]. Star News Korea (in Korean): 18416–18426. doi:10.3390/s150818416. Archived from the original on 2025-01-05. Retrieved 2025-01-02.
^"'인피니트 소속사'울림엔터테인먼트, SM과 합병된다" ['Infinite's agency' Woollim Entertainment to merge with SM]. Seoul Economic Daily (in Korean). 2013-08-09. Archived from the original on 2025-01-04. Retrieved 2025-01-04.
^Seon, Mi-kyung (2014-11-17). "러블리즈, 17일 데뷔앨범 발매..소녀감성+음악성 담았다" [Lovelyz, debut album release on the 17th.. Contains girlish sensibility + musicality]. Osen (in Korean). Archived from the original on 2024-12-04. Retrieved 2025-01-04.
^Yoo, Sang-woo (2016-12-28). "JYP 떠난 가수 주, 울림엔터테인먼트와 계약" [Singer Joo, who left JYP, signs with Woollim Entertainment]. Newsis (in Korean). Archived from the original on 2025-01-04. Retrieved 2025-01-04.
^Yang, Seung-jun (2019-03-26). "윤종신 "이젠 짜치게 살지 말고 멋을 찾읍시다"" [Yoon Jong-shin: "Let's stop living in a slovenly way and find style."]. Hankook Ilbo (in Korean). Archived from the original on 2025-01-03. Retrieved 2025-01-03.
^Lee, Eun-jung (2017-03-30). "SM, 윤종신 기획사 최대 주주됐다...지분 28% 취득" [SM becomes largest shareholder of Yoon Jong-shin's agency... Acquires 28% stake]. Yonhap News Agency (in Korean). Archived from the original on 2025-01-03. Retrieved 2025-01-03.
^Heo, Ji-young (2024-01-03). "데이브레이크, 미스틱스토리와 전속계약 체결...윤종신·루시와 한솥밥" [Daybreak signs exclusive contract with Mystic Story... Yoon Jong-shin and Lucy join forces]. Seoul Economic Daily (in Korean). Archived from the original on 2025-01-03. Retrieved 2025-01-03.
^Shin, Hyo-ryeong (2020-03-27). "'슈퍼밴드' 루시, 미스틱스토리와 전속계약" ['Super Band' Lucy Signs Exclusive Contract with Mystic Story]. Newsis (in Korean). Archived from the original on 2025-01-03. Retrieved 2025-01-03.
^Ahn, So-yun (2021-12-20). "미스틱스토리, 네이버 나우로 연말 라이브쇼" [Mystic Story, Year-end Live Show on Naver Now]. Newsis (in Korean). Archived from the original on 2025-01-03. Retrieved 2025-01-03.
^Yoon, Goo-eun (2016-11-21). "김석훈·조한선, 미스틱액터스와 전속계약" [Kim Seok-hoon and Jo Han-sun sign exclusive contracts with Mystic Actors]. Yonhap News Agency (in Korean). Archived from the original on 2025-01-03. Retrieved 2025-01-03.
^Lee, Ju-hee (2017-06-28). "오지은, 미스틱과 재계약 '인연 이어나간다'" [Oh Ji-eun, Renews Contract with Mystic 'Continuing Relationship']. Hankook Ilbo (in Korean). Archived from the original on 2025-01-03. Retrieved 2025-01-03.
^Lee, Seung-hoon (2023-12-13). "윤종신도 인정할 루시의 자신감.."LUCY가 미스틱 간판" [인터뷰③]" [Yoon Jong-shin also acknowledges Lucy's confidence... "LUCY is the Mystic signboard"]. Star News Korea (in Korean). Archived from the original on 2023-12-13. Retrieved 2025-01-03.
^Jeong, Ah-ran (2015-05-15). "배용준의 키이스트는 어떤 회사...한중일 3국서 사업" [What kind of company is Bae Yong-joon's KeyEast? Business in Korea, China, and Japan]. Yonhap News Agency (in Korean). Archived from the original on 2025-01-02. Retrieved 2025-01-02.
^Yoo, Won-jeong (2021-11-02). "'펜트하우스' 윤종훈 키이스트와 전속계약" [Penthouse Yoon Jong-hoon signs exclusive contract with KeyEast]. No Cut News. Archived from the original on 2025-01-02. Retrieved 2025-01-02.
^Young, Ha-na (2024-04-03). "한선화, 키이스트와 두 번째 재계약 "서로에 대한 무한 신뢰와 존중"" [Han Sun-hwa, Second Renewal of Contract with Key East "Infinite Trust and Respect for Each Other"]. The Chosun Ilbo (in Korean). Archived from the original on 2025-01-02. Retrieved 2025-01-02.
^"카라 출신 구하라는...한류 2세대 대표 걸그룹 멤버" [Goo Hara, formerly of Kara... Member of a representative second-generation Korean Wave girl group]. The Chosun Ilbo (in Korean). 2020-07-17. Archived from the original on 2025-01-02. Retrieved 2025-01-02.
^Lee, Jung-hyun (2021-05-27). "키이스트, 학폭 논란 지수와 전속계약 해지" [KeyEast terminates exclusive contract with Jisoo amid school violence controversy]. Yonhap News Agency (in Korean). Archived from the original on 2025-01-02. Retrieved 2025-01-02.
^Jeon, Won (2014-02-27). "SM 인디레이블 '발전소' 출정...비주류 장르 부활" [SM Indie Label 'Baljunso' Launches... Revival of Non-Mainstream Genres]. MyDaily (in Korean). Retrieved 2025-01-10.
^Jeong, Hee-seo (2015-01-21). "장혜진, SM 발전소와 전속 계약...26일 신곡 발표" [Jang Hye-jin, exclusive contract with SM Power Plant... New song to be released on the 26th]. XSports News (in Korean). Retrieved 2025-01-10.
^Hong, Hye-min (2023-11-22). "빅플래닛메이드, 대주주 변경..."밀리언마켓 지분도 취득"" [Big Planet Made Changes Major Shareholder... "Acquired Million Market Shares"]. Hankook Ilbo (in Korean). Retrieved 2025-01-10.
^ abLee, Ha-na (2017-06-01). "수란, 첫 미니앨범 'Walkin 전곡 하이라이트 영상 공개" [Suran, first mini album 'Walkin full song highlight video released]. Seoul Economic Daily (in Korean). Retrieved 2025-01-10.
^Lee, Jeong-ho (2020-06-28). "페노메코, 소속사 밀리언마켓 떠난다 "새 활동 이어갈 것"[전문]" [Penomeco leaves agency Million Market, "Will continue new activities"]. Star News Korea (in Korean). Archived from the original on 2024-07-06. Retrieved 2025-01-10.
^Jang, In-young (2022-05-19). "문수진, 데뷔 첫 미니앨범 발매...'럭키 참스!'" [Moon Soo-jin, releases first mini-album since debut... 'Lucky Charms!']. Newsis (in Korean). Retrieved 2025-01-10.
^Park, So-hyun (2018-05-21). "[공식입장] '소년24' 출신 박도하, 밀리언마켓과 전속계약...수란·페노메코와 한솥밥" [Park Do-ha from 'Boy24' signs exclusive contract with Million Market... Joins Suran and Penomeco]. XSports News (in Korean). Retrieved 2025-01-10.
^Kim, Eun-ae (2020-07-18). "성담, 7일 첫 정식 싱글 발매..온기 가득 달콤 보이스 '봄감성 겨냥'" [Sung Dam, first official single release on the 7th.. Sweet voice full of warmth 'Aiming for spring emotions']. The Chosun Ilbo (in Korean). Retrieved 2025-01-10.