Sumi Jo has joined forces with SM Entertainment. The soprano signed an exclusive recording artist contract covering album and music production.

SM Entertainment announced on April 21 that Sumi Jo has become the first exclusive recording artist under its label SM Classics.

First Artist of SM Classics

The exclusive recording artist deal is a contract format typically used by global major labels. It focuses on album planning, recording, and distribution.

Through this agreement, Sumi Jo will receive full support in album and music production from SM Classics.

40th Anniversary Album 'Continuum'

Her first project under the deal will be a new album release. Sumi Jo is set to drop her 40th debut anniversary special album Continuum next month.

She described the album as "the result of a long journey and at the same time a new beginning," adding that it includes challenging coloratura arias and new musical attempts.

Sumi Jo also emphasized her artistic direction, saying she aims to break the boundaries between classical tradition and modern sensibility while continuing to explore new music.

Continuum captures her past, present, and future. The album includes a total of 11 tracks, with contributions from composers such as Yiruma and Park Jong-hoon.

Conductor Choi Young-sun led the Bucheon Philharmonic Orchestra for the recording. The album also features a duet with Suho and violinist Danny Koo.

Meanwhile, Sumi Jo continues her 40th anniversary project. After completing performances in London and New York, she will meet domestic fans through a nationwide tour.