Is a new K-pop power map emerging in 2026?

South Korea’s K-pop industry may be entering a new phase of competition in 2026, as several prominent producers and entertainment companies prepare to launch new boy bands in the first half of the year. The renewed attention comes as veteran producer Lee Soo-man reached the end of a three-year noncompete agreement in late February, following his departure from SM Entertainment in 2023. With Lee expected to return to the Korean market with a new boy band, industry observers say the coming months

By The Korea Herald