Lee Soo-man, former chief producer of SM Entertainment, is officially kicking off his return to the K-pop scene.
A2O Entertainment Korea, founded by Lee, announced on the 23rd that it will host its first open audition, the 'A2O ZALPHA Audition' (A2O ZALPHA AUDITION).
This marks Lee’s first formal move signaling his comeback to the K-pop market. Previously, after selling his SM Entertainment shares to HYBE, he agreed to a three-year non-compete that barred him from album producing. That agreement expired at the end of February.
Under the slogan 'Every Sunday, A New Possibility Begins' (EVERY SUNDAY, A NEW POSSIBILITY BEGINS), the 'A2O ZALPHA Audition' will be held regularly every Sunday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. at A2O Entertainment Korea in Gangnam-gu, Seoul. To boost accessibility, applicants can simply walk in on the day without any prior steps. Those unable to attend in person can also apply through the official online channels.
The audition categories include vocals, rap, dance, and acting, and anyone can apply regardless of nationality or gender. After Korea, the event is set to expand to Japan and the United States.