5 artists who debuted under SM Entertainment

Being the home of many hits in the K-Pop industry, SM Entertainment is one of the most influential agencies in Korea. Founded in 1989, the company is part of the so-called ‘Big 3′, the three main entertainment companies in the country, along with JYP Entertainment and YG Entertainment. Among the artists who have stood out since their debut, we can find names like Girls’ Generation, NCT, aespa and RIIZE.

With that in mind, RECREIO put together a list of some big-name artists and groups in the industry who debuted with SM Entertainment.

Taemin (SHINee)

Being one of the icons of the second and third generation of K-Pop, Taemin debuted with SHINee in 2008, and soon gained prominence with his dancing, elevating him to new heights as soon as he debuted his first solo album, “Ace”, in 2014. Furthermore, the star is also part of SuperM, a subgroup of SM composed of seven members of other company groups.

After 15 years at SM Entertainment, the artist announced his departure from the agency in March 2024, but guaranteed his stay at SHINee. In April of the same year, he signed with BPM Entertainment, which now manages his solo activities.

Jessica Jung (Girls’ Generation)

Starting his career in 2007, Jessica Jung was part of SM Entertainment’s iconic girl group, Girls’ Generation, after spending seven years as a trainee. After achieving gigantic success with the group, some scheduling conflicts, which were shared with his brand ‘Blanc & Eclare’, were the reason for his departure from the group and, consequently, from the company.

In 2016, Jessica He launched his solo career under Coridel Entertainment, debuting with the track “Fly”, which consolidated his individual talent. Since then, she has diversified her career by acting in films, participating in variety shows and expanding her fashion brand.

Sulli (f(x))

Sulli He began his career in entertainment as a child, acting in a K-drama in 2005, and four years later, he debuted as an idol with the girl group f(x) under SM Entertainment. Gaining great prominence for being one of the most charismatic groups of the generation, the singer soon won the hearts of fans for her versatility.

In August 2015, Sulli announced her departure from f(x) to focus on her acting career. After renewing her contract with SM Entertainment in 2017, the artist launched herself as a soloist two years later with the single ‘Goblin’. In August of the same year, unfortunately, Sulli was found dead in her home, one of the most notable losses in K-Pop.

EXO

As one of the most emblematic groups of the third generation of K-Pop, the boy group EXO debuted in April 2012 through SM Entertainment, quickly standing out for its striking choreography and vocals, in addition to its innovative concepts, becoming a phenomenon in South Korea.

Over the years, EXO has undergone some significant changes in its lineup, with the departure of Kris, Luhan and Soin addition to Lay who announced his departure from SM Entertainment. Currently the group members are: Suho, Xiumin, Baekhyun, Chen, Chanyeol, DO, Kai and Sehun.

Super Junior

Super Junior, also known as SuJu, is one of the longest-lasting groups in K-Pop, having its official debut on November 6, 2005 with the single “Twins (Knock Out)”. The group was one of the pioneers in the expansion of K-Pop to international markets, being one of the main groups to achieve global success.

Currently composed of Leeteuk, Heechul, Tesung, Shindong, Sungmin, Eunhyuk, Siwon, Donghae, Ryeowook and KyuhyunSuper Junior remains active and relevant in the industry.

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