Bada, Reveals Meeting with Lee Soo-man: "Grateful to the Founder Who Foretold the Future of K-pop"

Bada, formerly of the group S.E.S., expressed her heartfelt gratitude by sharing photos with producer Lee Soo-man. On the 20th, Bada posted several photos on her SNS with the caption, ″With S.E.S’s eternal producer, Lee Soo-man.″ The photos showed Bada and Lee Soo-man posing warmly together while dining at a restaurant. Bada created a friendly atmosphere by resting her hand on Lee Soo-man’s arm or leaning on his shoulder. Both smiled at the camera and took selfies, showing their enduring friendship. At this gathering, Bada expressed her thanks and respect for Lee Soo-man. She said, ″From the moment I started music until now, our teacher has made me think, learn, and experience so much.″ She recalled, ″Even before the term K-pop existed, 30 years ago, he often told me, as the leader of S.E.S., that Korean idol music would become the center of the global market, that such an era would surely come in the near future, and that we must prepare for it.″ She added, ″Looking back now, every word he said then is astonishing and deeply touching.″ Bada said, ″I was just an 18-year-old child, but from then on, he always treated me as an artist and gave me thoughtful questions and gentle guidance. I have never forgotten those many days.″ She continued, ″Thanks to his precious teachings, I believe I have come this far.″ Finally, she expressed her affection for Lee Soo-man, saying, ″Even as time passes, I respect and love the father of S.E.S., who always remains in my heart with gratitude.″ Meanwhile, Lee Soo-man, founder of SM Entertainment and known as the pioneer of K-pop, resumed his activities as a producer at A2O Entertainment after a three-year non-compete period ended. After debuting the global girl group A2O MAY in December 2024, he is building recognition first in the Chinese market and expanding his activities to U.S. radio and music festivals.