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SM Entertainment Unveils 'SM Next 30' Strategy

  //media-entertainment.news-articles.net/content/ .. m-entertainment-unveils-sm-next-30-strategy.html
  Published in Media and Entertainment on Saturday, January 24th 2026 at 11:00 GMT by Forbes
      Locales: KOREA REPUBLIC OF, JAPAN

Three Pillars of a Future-Forward Strategy

The strategy is built around three core pillars, each designed to address evolving market demands and leverage emerging technologies:

• Revolutionizing Artist Development: Recognizing the intensely competitive global entertainment market, SM Entertainment is dramatically overhauling its artist development pipeline. This isn't merely about training aspiring idols; it's about cultivating well-rounded, globally-ready artists equipped with the skills and adaptability to thrive in a dynamic environment. The plan includes expanding existing trainee programs, incorporating feedback from experienced international mentors, and providing exposure to diverse cultural influences. Specific initiatives involve partnerships with prestigious performing arts institutions in North America and Europe to offer advanced training and networking opportunities.
• Building a World-Class Creative Ecosystem: The company is investing heavily in upgrading its physical and digital infrastructure to foster innovation. This includes state-of-the-art recording studios, advanced production facilities, and collaborative workspaces designed to bring together artists, producers, songwriters, and creative technologists. A key component is the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools. These tools will assist in music composition, vocal training, choreography development, and even personalized fan engagement strategies - streamlining workflows and unlocking new creative possibilities. The company is partnering with several leading AI research labs to ensure access to cutting-edge technology and expertise.
• Diversifying Revenue Streams for Sustainable Growth: SM Entertainment acknowledges that relying solely on music sales and concert revenue is unsustainable. The "SM Next 30" strategy prioritizes diversifying income streams into burgeoning sectors. Mobile gaming remains a prime target, with plans to develop original games based on the company's established artist IP and narrative universes. Beyond gaming, SM is exploring opportunities within entertainment technology, interactive content creation (including virtual concerts and immersive experiences), and Web3 integrations. The metaverse presents a significant opportunity, with the company exploring options for creating virtual spaces for fan interaction, exclusive content drops, and branded merchandise.

Embracing the Technological Frontier

A significant portion of the "SM Next 30" plan revolves around embracing and integrating emerging technologies. SM Entertainment recognizes that AI isn't just a tool for creative enhancement; it's a transformative force reshaping the entire entertainment landscape. Blockchain technology is being explored to enhance transparency and artist royalties, while virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are poised to revolutionize fan experiences and concert presentations. These investments are seen as essential for maintaining a competitive edge and connecting with a digitally native audience.

While specific financial figures remain confidential, SM Entertainment has pledged substantial investment to realize the ambitious goals outlined in the plan. The company's leadership believes that the "SM Next 30" strategy represents a fundamental shift, positioning SM Entertainment not just as a purveyor of music, but as a global entertainment powerhouse shaping the future of content creation and consumption.