SM Entertainment publishes its 4th sustainability management report
On June 27, SM Entertainment released its fourth sustainability management report, providing a comprehensive overview of its key achievements in 2024 regarding environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives, along with its management strategy based on this framework.
🌍 Environment
- Sustainable management and reduction of greenhouse gases: calculation of emissions related to album production and concerts.
- Creation of a second wild forest of approximately 485 m² in the Children’s Garden at Seoul Forest, south of the city, planting 58 species of shrubs, flowers, and climate change indicator species, along with a resting area for visitors.
- Eco-friendly albums and merchandise, and an exhibition of recycled artist costumes (upcycling).
👥 Social
- 30th Anniversary of SM Entertainment: commemorative performances and accessibility guide for people with disabilities.
- Human rights impact assessment involving employees, interns, and suppliers, in collaboration with external experts.
- Establishment of the Information Technology Committee, reporting to the CEO, to enhance cybersecurity.
- Health and safety risk assessments, actions in concert halls and pop-up stores.
- 10th anniversary of the SMile Contribution Program: publication of a white paper summary.
Music and participatory initiatives: the SMile Music Festival, the SMile for U project in partnership with UNICEF Korea for children’s music education in Asia, and volunteer work by artists and staff through SMile Corps.
📈 Governance
Repurchase and cancellation of 477,274 shares in 2024 (approximately 35.7 billion KRW) and 458,937 shares in February 2025 (approximately 40.3 billion KRW), strengthening the shareholder redistribution policy.
Enhancement of the board’s independence and transparency.
Protection of artists’ intellectual property rights via “KWANGYA 119,” with more than 190,000 reports processed.
Establishment of a risk management committee and adoption of ethical and compliant practices.
Thanks to these ESG efforts, SM Entertainment received the prestigious Corporate Innovation Award at the 31st edition of the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry awards in December 2024.
Co-CEOs Jang Chul Hyuk and Tak Young Joon stated:
“For our 30th anniversary, with our new slogan ‘THE CULTURE, THE FUTURE,’ SM Entertainment builds on its cultural legacy to guide the future of K-POP, deeply ingrained in the daily lives and memories of people. We will continue to pioneer social responsibility and sustainable development in K-POP.”
This report aligns with international standards (GRI Standards 2021), the 10 principles of the UN Global Compact, and the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Journalist: Shawn
Translator: Shawn
Source: Bilan SM Entertainment
