Leaders from SM Entertainment, Kakao Entertainment, and Hybe Acknowledged for Global Business Achievements

Courtesy of Kakao Entertainment

▲ Kakao Entertainment's logo / Courtesy of Kakao Entertainment

 

Several executives from prominent K-pop companies have earned spots on Billboard's 2024 International Power Players List, which recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the global music record industry outside the United States.

Joseph Chang, Co-CEO of Kakao Entertainment, along with Jang Cheol-hyuk and Tak Young-jun, Co-CEOs of SM Entertainment, and SM Chief A&R Officer Lee Sung-su, were included on the list following the merger of the American branches of Kakao Entertainment and SM Entertainment. This collaboration also extended its influence into Europe through a partnership with British production company Moon&Back, leading to the launch of a K-pop boy group comprising British members in the UK. Additionally, SM and Moon&Back are planning to produce a six-episode TV series documenting the group's formation.
 

▲ SM Entertainment's logo / Courtesy of SM Entertainment

Starship Entertainment, a sublabel of Kakao Entertainment, achieved success with the K-pop girl group IVE's inaugural world tour, featuring six arena shows in the United States in March.

Hybe, represented by CEO Park Ji-won, President of Big Hit Music Shin Young-jae, Master Professional of Pledis Entertainment Han Sung-soo, and General Manager of Hybe 360 Oh Yoo-jin, was recognized for its diversification efforts. Hybe expanded its portfolio by acquiring Atlanta-based entertainment company Quality Control and Latin music company Exile Music. These strategic mergers and acquisitions contributed to Hybe becoming the first K-pop agency to surpass 2 trillion won ($1.5 billion) in revenue in 2023. The growth was further fueled by the success of Hybe's artists, including Jungkook, Jimin, and Seventeen, who garnered acclaim with their hit singles, albums, and concerts.

▲ Hybe's logo / Courtesy of Hybe

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Blue YIM, yimyoungseo1010@naver.com