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Lee Soo-man A2O Entertainment debut

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2026-10-18 08:45 UTC → 2026-10-24 16:43 UTC · added ~~removed~~

K-pop producer Lee Soo-man has returned to the South Korean music industry through his new agency, A2O Entertainment, following the expiration of a non-compete agreement. He launched two new idol groups, the 15-member boy group A2O Soul and the nine-member girl group A2O Lite, during a global showcase in Goyang. Lee introduced the ‘A2O Cosmic Epic’ fictional universe and showcased ‘Culture Technology’ (CT) using 4D Gaussian Splatting to create three-dimensional performance reconstructions. Following the debut, A2O Lite released the digital single ‘Neon’. Produced by Lee Soo-man and former SM director Yoo Youngjin, the track has been noted for its emphasis on layered harmonies, high notes, and structured dance breaks, drawing comparisons to the 2010s musical identity of groups such as Girls’ Generation, SHINee, and f(x). The group achieved a significant milestone by reaching number one on the Melon Top 100 chart just 29 hours after the release, marking one of the fastest climbs for a rookie group since the chart’s 2021 restructuring. Despite commercial success, the debut has faced mounting scrutiny. Critics and fans have raised concerns regarding the young age of the performers, noting an average age of 15, which has sparked debates regarding the treatment of underage performers. Additionally, the debut showcase featured an AI-powered phone call service, ‘BloomingTalk’, allowing fans to interact with digital avatars of the members, drawing backlash over the use of deep-fake technology on minors, particularly as some members of A2O Lite are 13 years old. Further complications have emerged regarding member Aijing. Allegations in Chinese media concern unpaid wages at a Beijing-based education company managed by the member’s parents, with reports indicating the company faces court-ordered enforcement cases involving significant outstanding amounts.

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