Lee Soo-man, the former chief producer of SM Entertainment, is preparing to launch a new idol group.

Lee Soo-man is currently focused on recruiting idol trainees and producers. His team is searching for talented male and female trainees nationwide, and one of the trainees already cast is reported to be from the Gyeongnam region.

In February last year, Lee Soo-man sold his shares to HYBE, which acquired 14.8% of SM Entertainment at ₩120,000 per share, amounting to a total of ₩422.8 billion. As part of the agreement, Lee signed a non-compete clause, preventing him from producing music in Korea for three years. With about 1 year and 4 months left until this clause expires, it seems Lee is preparing to return to the entertainment business.

Earlier this year, Lee Soo-man filed a trademark for "A2O Entertainment" through his personal company, Blooming Grace. Since A2O Entertainment includes entertainment-related businesses, there has been speculation that this could signal his return as a producer.

Additionally, Lee Soo-man is reportedly planning to recruit new producers, including Yoo Young-jin, a long-time collaborator from his days at SM Entertainment.

Earlier in June, Lee Soo-man was spotted in China speaking with boys presumed to be idol trainees. Blooming Grace confirmed that auditions were held in both China and Japan. On October 5, U.S. K-pop media outlet Allkpop reported that Lee Soo-man, Yoo Young-jin, and Sunny were seen together in China, sparking speculation about potential collaboration between the three. Sunny, who left SM Entertainment in August last year, is currently not affiliated with any agency.

Anticipation is building for the new idol group to be launched by Lee Soo-man and Yoo Young-jin, both iconic figures from SM Entertainment.

Lee Soo-man is a pivotal figure in the South Korean idol industry. During his time at SM Entertainment, he was responsible for the success of legendary groups such as BoA, TVXQ, H.O.T, S.E.S, Shinhwa, Super Junior, Girls' Generation, and SHINee.