Former SM Entertainment CEO Kim Young Min has drawn attention after publicly praising HYBE Chairman Bang Si Hyuk, following his appointment as Chairman of HYBE Japan.
In a recent interview with Japanese media, Kim Young Min spoke candidly about Bang’s influence on the global expansion of K-pop, stating: “Without Bang Si Hyuk, K-pop would not have achieved the level of global success it enjoys today.”
Kim Young Min, who previously led SM Entertainment during a pivotal era, revealed that he first became aware of Bang Si Hyuk while serving as SM’s CEO. Even then, he said, Bang left a strong impression on him.
“I remember thinking: when a genius is also incredibly hardworking, this is what happens. It’s extremely rare to see someone who is both exceptionally talented and relentlessly diligent,” Kim Young Min said.
According to Kim, Bang Si Hyuk personally reached out with a collaboration proposal in Japan after learning that Kim was preparing to depart from SM Entertainment. After careful consideration, Kim decided to accept the offer and begin a new chapter alongside HYBE.
His remarks have sparked widespread discussion within the industry, as they come amid ongoing comparisons between Korea’s major entertainment powerhouses. Kim’s comments highlight Bang Si Hyuk’s reputation not only as a producer and executive, but as one of the key architects behind K-pop’s transformation into a global cultural force.
With Kim Young Min now leading HYBE Japan, industry observers are closely watching how the partnership between the two veteran executives will shape HYBE’s expansion strategy in the Japanese market and beyond.
Sources: Netizenbuzz
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