SM Entertainment's founder Lee Soo-man has launched A2O Entertainment, a new global artist development platform focused on young talent. This move comes after his departure from SM Entertainment following its acquisition by Kakao.

The agency has organized its talent into four distinct age-based groups:

• Low teen boys (15 and under)
• High teen boys (16 and up)
• Low teen girls (15 and under)
• High teen girls (16 and up)

Key aspects of A2O Entertainment:

• Focuses on long-term artist development
• Features primarily Chinese and Japanese trainees
• Established presence on Chinese platforms (Weibo, Bilibili, Douyin)
• Introduces "CAWMAN" concept (Cartoon, Animation, Webtoon, Motion Picture, Avatar, Novel)

Due to a non-compete agreement with Hybe, Lee Soo-man cannot participate in entertainment business activities in Korea for three years, which explains A2O's global focus.

The agency's unique approach includes a graduation system where "low teen" members progress to "high teen" status as they mature, with official music releases beginning in the higher age category.

The launch represents a significant development in the expansion of K-pop's training and development model to a more international audience, joining other global initiatives like Geffen and Hybe's Katseye project.

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