The record producer Lee Soo-man fundamentally reshaped the South Korean music industry after returning from the United States in 1985 with a vision for modern pop entertainment. By pioneering an in-house management system for teenage artists, he transformed SM Entertainment into one of the largest entertainment conglomerates in the country, deeply influencing the development of the Korean Wave.
Early Career and Education
Born in Jeonju on 18 June 1952, Lee Soo-man attended Seoul National University during the 1970s while pursuing a career as a singer. He joined the band April and May in 1971 and later released hit songs such as A Piece of Dream and Happiness. Beyond his musical endeavors, he served as a radio DJ and television host. In 1980, he formed Lee Soo-man and The 365 Days, but government censorship policies eventually prompted him to pursue further education abroad.
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Lee earned a master's degree in computer engineering at California State University, Northridge, where he observed the MTV generation and the rise of superstars like Michael Jackson. This experience provided the foundation for his business strategy. In 1989, he established SM Studio in the Apgujeong neighborhood of Seoul, later renaming it SM Entertainment in 1995. His model focused on a holistic, in-house system to train and manage young talent.
Corporate Expansion and Governance
Over the following decades, Lee maintained control of SM Entertainment through various structures, including the production company Like Planning, founded in 1997. He later expanded his interests to include the music publishing firm Culture Technology Group Asia and the drone company LeePollux. Despite his influence, his corporate practices, particularly regarding consultancy fees, faced scrutiny from shareholders such as KB Asset Management in 2019.
Departure and New Ventures
A public corporate battle erupted in 2023 when SM Entertainment moved to adopt a multi-production system, leading to Lee's exit. Following a series of public accusations regarding his business practices and tax concerns, he sold his stake to Hybe Corporation and stepped away from SM. Since his departure, he has founded A2O Entertainment and the firm Blooming Grace, which focuses on the intersection of culture and technology.
Fast facts
- Born: 18 June 1952, Jeonju
- Education: Seoul National University; California State University, Northridge
- Founding of SM Studio: 1989
- Founder of Like Planning: 1997
- Order of Cultural Merit, 2nd class recipient: 2011
- Donation to Sewol ferry disaster victims: 2014
- Languages: Korean
Questions readers ask
What is the origin of the company name SM?
Did Lee Soo-man work on projects outside of SM Entertainment?
Yes, he worked on the 2020 EP [#] for the girl group Loona, marking his first project outside of his own company.
Achievements
- Educated at California State University, Northridge, Seoul National University and Kyungbock High School
- Worked as singer, record producer and entrepreneur
