Lee Soo-man Will Debut New Groups on October 12
A2O Entertainment is set to launch two new K-pop inspired acts at a global showcase event.
Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in R&B
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Founder Lee Soo-man will debut the boy group A2O Soul and the girl group A2O Lite at a global showcase on October 12, 2026. This follows the expiration of his noncompete agreement with Hybe in February 2026.
Why it matters
The simultaneous launch of these new groups marks a return to the industry for Lee Soo-man, who is leveraging his new Singapore-based company to implement specific production visions and technology plans.
A2O Entertainment will release digital singles Superstar and Neon at 6 p.m. on Tuesday. These new groups follow the debut of A2O May in 2024, continuing the label's expansion since its founding in Singapore.
The players
Lee Soo-man
The influential executive who founded SM Entertainment in 1995 and now leads A2O Entertainment.
Yoo Young-jin
A veteran music producer who previously spent 28 years at SM Entertainment.
A2O Entertainment
A Singapore-based music label that manages the A2O brand and its various performance groups.
Hybe
A major entertainment conglomerate that held a three-year noncompete agreement with Lee Soo-man.
The details
The two new acts will share a common fictional universe while maintaining unique artistic identities, departing from sequential release models. Music and performance production for the groups is being overseen by Yoo Young-jin.
Timeline
1995: Lee Soo-man founded SM Entertainment.
2023: Lee Soo-man left SM Entertainment.
2024: A2O Entertainment debuted A2O May.
February 2026: Noncompete agreement with Hybe expired.
October 12, 2026: Global debut showcase for A2O Soul and A2O Lite.
Industry Dynamics
This move signals a strategic shift in K-pop production as established veterans transition to independent global labels to bypass domestic constraints. It marks a departure from the traditional hierarchy of legacy agencies, positioning A2O Entertainment as a new competitor in the international market.
Fans globally can participate in the debut process starting with the digital single releases at 6 p.m. on Tuesday. Access to the new groups and their shared fictional universe will be managed through the upcoming digital platforms outlined at the showcase.
The takeaway
The simultaneous launch of multiple groups indicates a push for a more immersive and interconnected artist experience in the music industry. Listeners should expect a heightened focus on the integration of technology into the performance and production models of these new acts.
Further reading
Explore the latest developments in the R&B scene for more context on global music trends.
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