The American Billboard has announced the '2025 Indie Power Players'. The leaders of K-pop agencies including Han Sung-soo, So Seong-jin, Tak Young-jun, and Jang Cheol-hyuk have caught attention.
On the 10th (local time), Billboard released the list of '2025 Indie Power Players'. Han Sung-soo (Pledis Entertainment), So Seong-jin (Source Music), and joint representatives Tak Young-jun and Jang Cheol-hyuk (SM Entertainment) were recognized for their achievements.
The 'Indie Power Players' list is created by Billboard to select leaders of labels and distribution companies that have achieved independent success in the global music market. However, the top three American labels (Universal Music, Sony Music, and Warner Music) are excluded.
MP Han Sung-soo has been leading Pledis. Billboard noted, "The last 18 months were filled with impressive achievements by Pledis artists, especially SEVENTEEN."
During this period, SEVENTEEN placed two albums on the Billboard 200 chart, including their 12th mini-album and 5th studio album. They also made a strong impact as headliners at global music festivals such as Lollapalooza Berlin, Glastonbury in the UK, and Tecate Pa'l Norte in Mexico.
Han Sung-soo MP commented, "SEVENTEEN conveys positive messages through music and inspires fans worldwide," adding, "In June of last year, they made history by being appointed as UNESCO's first Youth Goodwill Ambassadors."
So Seong-jin MP is credited as a key figure in the success of Le Sserafim. The group achieved 7th place on the Billboard 200 with their single 'CRAZY' last year and ranked 1st on the Album Sales chart. Their 5th mini-album 'HOT' debuted at 9th on the Billboard 200 chart.
So Seong-jin MP referred to this achievement as "an incredible result," stating, "It reflects Le Sserafim's growing global influence."
Joint representatives Jang Cheol-hyuk and Tak Young-jun from SM were also chosen as Indie Power Players. Billboard commented on SM's 30th anniversary projects, calling them "ambitious projects that reflect the company’s legacy and vision."
Billboard also mentioned the activities of SM artists, stating, "aespa, NCT 127, and RIIZE have had successful years," and added, "The new girl group HAEGEUM has also made their debut."
Jang Cheol-hyuk and Tak Young-jun expressed through Billboard, "On the occasion of our 30th anniversary, we aim to strengthen our global influence and leadership in the entertainment industry." They further shared, "SM is continuously committed to shaping the future of culture based on bold creativity, solid planning capabilities, and deep respect for our legacy."
▲ Han Sung-soo Pledis MP, So Seong-jin Source Music MP
▲ Han Sung-soo Pledis MP, So Seong-jin Source Music MP
▲ Tak Young-jun, Jang Cheol-hyuk SM Joint Representatives
▲ Tak Young-jun, Jang Cheol-hyuk SM Joint Representatives
<Photo source: Billboard, SM Entertainment, Pledis, Source Music>
