SM Entertainment Wins Historic K-Pop Export Trade Day Award

SM Entertainment Sets New K-Pop Export Record with Prestigious Trade Day Award

SM Entertainment has made history, becoming the first K-pop entertainment company to receive the “100 Million Dollar Export Tower” award. The landmark achievement was recognized at the 62nd Trade Day Ceremony held on December 4, 2025, at the Trade Center COEX Hall D. This award highlights the company’s significant contribution to the nation’s K-pop export figures and solidifies its position as a leader in the global music industry. Alongside this historic win, the company was also honored with the “Service Tower,” acknowledging its excellence in the service industry.

A Landmark Achievement for Global K-Pop

The ceremony, organized by the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy and hosted by the Korea International Trade Association, celebrates companies that have made substantial contributions to South Korea’s international trade. SM Entertainment’s dual win is a testament to its sustained success in promoting K-content worldwide. The “100 Million Dollar Export Tower” is particularly noteworthy as it quantifies the immense economic impact of the company’s cultural exports, a first for an agency in the competitive K-pop sector. Co-CEO Jang Cheolhyuk was present at the ceremony to accept the prestigious awards on behalf of the company.

Celebrating 30 Years of Pioneering K-Pop Export

This significant Trade Day award is especially meaningful as it coincides with SM Entertainment’s 30th anniversary. During the event, Co-CEO Jang Cheolhyuk commented on the company’s three-decade journey, emphasizing its role in laying the groundwork for K-pop’s global expansion. He stated that the award reflects 30 years of effort in introducing K-pop to the world. This long-standing influence cements the company’s pioneering role in K-pop’s history and its status as a foundational pillar of the Hallyu wave.

Solidifying a Legacy in the Global Music Market

Under the leadership of Co-CEOs Jang Cheolhyuk and Tak Youngjoon, SM Entertainment has consistently driven the international growth of its artists and content. The dual awards serve as official recognition of the company’s systematic approach to global market penetration and its success in creating a sustainable model for cultural exports. As the global fame of K-pop continues to grow, this achievement underscores the industry’s increasing importance to the national economy. This historic win not only honors SM Entertainment’s past accomplishments but also sets a new benchmark for the future of K-pop export, signaling continued growth and influence on the world stage.

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