Lee Soo-man Refuses to Attend SM’s 30th Anniversary Concert, “Learned about Invitation Through the News”
According to media outlet News1, an official from Lee Soo-man’s side revealed on January 10 that “Producer Lee Soo-man has decided not to attend SM Town Live 2025.” This means that the founder of SM, Lee Soo-man. has allegedly turned down SM’s invitation to attend its 30th anniversary concert.
Meanwhile, previously on December 25, 2024, SM stated, “We invited former executive producer Lee Soo-man as well as past artists we are currently able to contact.”
A representative for Lee Soo-man told Yonhap News, “Lee Soo-man, who was staying abroad, learned of SM’s invitation through media reports. We believe SM sent an invitation via registered mail to Blooming Grace (Lee Soo-man’s private company) then disclosed the invitation through the media.”
On the other hand, SM’s 30th anniversary concert recently drew criticisms as Girls’ Generation’s Taeyeon, Red Velvet’s Wendy, and Super Junior’s Yesung all voiced their frustration at SM regarding the concert preparation.
Meanwhile, previously, according to Maeil Business Star Today on December 24, SM Entertainment (SM) sent an official invitation to Lee Soo-man for the “SM Town Live 2025” concert, scheduled for January next year at the Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul. While it is unclear whether Lee Soo-man will accept the invitation, his attendance as the founder during this milestone year would hold great significance.
The invitation is reportedly a gesture of respect and acknowledgment for Lee Soo-man’s contributions to the company.
During the 25th World Knowledge Forum, hosted by Maeil Business in September, Lee Soo-man expressed his enduring affection for SM, stating, “I am the founder of SM, and next year marks its 30th anniversary.“
Lee Soo-man left SM early last year amidst a management dispute. However, his pivotal role in industrializing K-pop and captivating a global audience remains undisputed. If Lee Soo-man attends “SM Town Live 2025”, it will mark his first participation in an SM event in about two years, drawing significant industry attention.
“SM Town Live 2025” will be held over two days, January 11~12, at the Gocheok Sky Dome. The event will also be streamed online via the global platforms Beyond Live and Weverse, connecting fans worldwide. The lineup will feature a mix of SM’s senior and junior artists, including Kangta, BoA, TVXQ, Super Junior, RIIZE and NCT Dream.
Additionally, legends like Tony An from H.O.T., Bada from S.E.S. and Hwanhee from Fly to the Sky, who enjoyed their heyday at SM, are also expected to perform.
Meanwhile, Lee Soo-man is preparing for his return to the music industry through his new agency A2O Entertainment. Reports confirm that he is holding auditions to launch new idol groups, including boy and girl groups targeting both the Chinese and Korean markets.
