SM Entertainment, a cornerstone of K-pop history, is gearing up for its 30th anniversary next year. As part of the celebration, the entertainment giant has teamed up with Melon, South Korea’s leading music platform, to release a special “archive.” This collaboration will bring fans closer to SM’s rich musical heritage through curated content highlighting three decades of unforgettable hits and iconic artists.
A Year-Long Musical Celebration
The celebration kicks off with a special edition of Melon Magazine. This exclusive release will feature SM Entertainment’s most beloved songs spanning the past 30 years. The first issue is set to launch around February 14, aligning with the company’s founding anniversary. More issues will roll out throughout the year, offering fans a comprehensive journey through SM’s illustrious history.
The magazine draws inspiration from SM’s commemorative brand film, THE CULTURE, which premiered on October 22. It will showcase tracks that have shaped K-pop, including classics by H.O.T., S.E.S., Shinhwa, and BoA. These songs are more than hits; they represent the early milestones of K-pop and its global influence.
Iconic Artists and Unforgettable Music
Melon Magazine will highlight the evolution of K-pop through the lens of SM artists. Fans can revisit timeless tracks by TVXQ, Super Junior, and Girls’ Generation, who helped launch the Korean Wave globally. The lineup also includes SHINee, f(x), and Red Velvet, who captivated listeners with their unique styles and memorable concepts.
The magazine won’t stop at the past. It will feature modern trailblazers like EXO, known for their groundbreaking “idol worldview,” and NCT celebrated for their innovative group system. Aespa, with its cutting-edge sound, and RISE, pioneers of the emotional pop genre, will also take the spotlight, offering a glimpse into the future of K-pop.
A Grand Anniversary Concert
The 30th-anniversary celebrations extend beyond music releases. SM Entertainment will host a special edition of its signature concert brand, SMTOWN LIVE, in January. This two-day event will take place at the Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul on January 11 and 12. Fans can expect dazzling performances from all SM artists, showcasing the agency’s rich history and unparalleled talent.
The concert promises to be a visual and auditory treat, bringing together generations of artists who have shaped SM Entertainment into the global powerhouse it is today.
Honoring SM Entertainment’s Legacy
For three decades, SM Entertainment has been at the forefront of K-pop, producing some of the genre’s most influential artists and songs. This anniversary not only celebrates the company’s achievements but also its contribution to Korean culture and global entertainment.
Fans old and new will find plenty to enjoy, from nostalgic hits to modern masterpieces. With Melon Magazine and the SMTOWN LIVE concert, SM Entertainment invites everyone to celebrate its remarkable journey.
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Kavita Mishra is a dynamic writer and passionate Korean entertainment enthusiast, combining her love for K-pop and K-drama with a flair for storytelling. With a keen eye for the latest trends, Kavita crafts articles that capture the pulse of K-pop idols, chart-topping hits, and the most buzz-worthy dramas taking over screens worldwide.
