SM Entertainment Founder Lee Soo Man Inducted Into Asian Hall of Fame Recognizing K-pop Global Impact

Lee Soo Man, the founder of SM Entertainment and widely recognized as the architect of K-pop's global expansion, initially resisted being called the "King of K-pop," preferring the title "Father of K-pop." Despite his reservations, he accepted the title for the Amazon Prime documentary about his career as it was thought to resonate better with American audiences. Lee has played a pivotal role in popularizing K-pop internationally, pioneering an intensive training system for performers recruited from a young age, though his methods have sparked controversies over fairness and industry contracts. His induction into the Asian Hall of Fame alongside notable figures like Yao Ming and Michelle Kwan highlights his impact on the entertainment industry. Following a contentious departure from SM Entertainment, including a public feud and a bidding war for his shares, Lee continues to innovate by debuting a new band in China and the U.S. and investing in advanced music production technologies. Throughout his career, Lee has remained committed to advancing South Korea's cultural influence worldwide despite challenges and criticisms.