'Father of Hallyu' Lee Soo-man Unveils New Idol Group 'A2O Rookies' Photoshoot

[SBS Entertainment News | Kang Kyung-youn] Lee Soo-man, known as the 'Father of Hallyu,' has unveiled his new idol group 'A2O Rookies' after leaving SM Entertainment.

On the 25th, Esquire magazine released a photoshoot featuring Lee Soo-man's new idol group, A2O Rookies. The photoshoot includes five members: Szu-Chieh, Chen-Yu, Chui-Chang, Gaku, and Tai. Esquire described them as having "pure and radiant energy, making us look forward to the debut of other A2O Rookies yet to come."

There is still much to learn about A2O Rookies. Most of the members are reported to hold dual citizenship from China, Japan, and Russia, and they are primarily in their teens. Lee Soo-man aims to introduce a new genre called 'Jalpa Pop,' targeting the combined Generation Z and Alpha generations, which he refers to as the 'Jalpa Generation,' setting a new milestone in the K-pop music market.

After selling his shares in SM Entertainment, Lee Soo-man established 'A2O Entertainment' in May of last year, based in the U.S. and other locations, and has reportedly filed for trademark registration. He has been working with producer Yoo Young-jin to scout talented and visually appealing individuals from various countries to create a new idol group.

Additionally, Lee Soo-man has founded a personal investment company called 'Blooming Grace' and has made headlines by investing in the Chinese drone company 'EHang' and a biotech firm 'Progen' that is developing obesity treatment drug candidates.

Photo credit: Esquire

[SBS Entertainment News | Kang Kyung-youn]

(SBS Star)