SM Entertainment founder eyes return as non-compete nears end

With several high-profile K-pop comebacks lined up this year — including BTS BTS K-POP GROUP BTS is a seven–member South Korean boy group known for their powerful performances, self-produced music, and global impact across pop and hip-hop. , Big Bang, Exo EXO K-POP GROUP EXO is a globally influential K-pop boy group known for powerful vocals, polished performances, and a strong legacy in modern K-pop. Since debuting in 2012, EXO has shaped the sound and visuals of an entire generation. and Wanna One — industry attention is also turning to a different kind of return: that of Lee Soo-man, widely regarded as the architect of modern K-pop. Lee, the founder of SM Entertainment and now the key visionary behind Singapore-based A2O Entertainment, is expected to resume activities in Korea in March after a three-year non-compete clause tied to his deal with Hybe expires. Lee agreed to the restric