Lee Soo-man ushers in new K-pop era with A2O’s two groups launching simultaneously on the 12th

Lee Soo-man, founder of SM Entertainment and a pioneer of K-pop, is finally returning to South Korea’s music industry as key producer of A2O Entertainment. The new boy group “A2O SOUL” and girl group “A2O LITE” that he is launching have confirmed simultaneous debuts this month, drawing attention from the global music market.

K-pop master returns, builds distinct musical universe with Yoo Young-jin

“A2O Entertainment” officially announced the groups’ simultaneous debut on the 8th. They will make their high-profile debut at the global debut showcase “WELCOME TO SOULITE From A2O SOUL A2O LITE” on the 12th. The two groups will then release their debut digital singles worldwide at the same time at 6 p.m. on the 13th, marking the start of their official activities.

The debut carries special significance as the first South Korean project unveiled by producer Lee Soo-man since he left SM Entertainment and established his own agency. Yoo Young-jin, the producer who worked with him for many years and helped create numerous mega-hit songs, is overseeing the music and performance production, raising expectations for a level of polish on par with the best in the industry.

Lee Soo-man previously signaled his comeback by unveiling the girl group “A2O MAY” in 2024, targeting the global stage. His return to South Korea came sooner than expected after the three-year domestic noncompete agreement signed during the 2023 stock sale process involving HYBE was lifted early in February this year. Fans around the world are eagerly anticipating the musical vision the K-pop master will present and the synergy between the two rookie groups.