SM Executives Kim Ji-won and Choi Jung-min Selected for Billboard's 'Women in Music 2026' for Second Consecutive Year
Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
TLDR
- SM Entertainment executives Kim Ji-won and Choi Jung-min have been selected for Billboard's 'Women in Music 2026' awards.
- This marks the second consecutive year both executives have received this recognition from the prominent music industry publication.
- The award highlights their significant contributions to the K-pop industry.
The global recognition of SM Entertainment's leadership in the K-pop industry continues, with Chief Relations Officer Kim Ji-won and Chief Global Officer Choi Jung-min earning a coveted spot on Billboard's 'Women in Music 2026' list. This achievement, marking their second consecutive year of selection, is a powerful testament to their instrumental roles in shaping the international success of K-pop. For SM Entertainment and the broader Korean music scene, this is not just an individual accolade but a reflection of the industry's growing global influence and the strategic vision driving its expansion. While Western media often focuses on the artists themselves, this recognition of key executives underscores the sophisticated business and strategic operations behind the K-pop phenomenon. It highlights the critical work done behind the scenes in fostering global partnerships, managing artist relations, and navigating the complex international music landscape. This award from Billboard, a globally respected authority, further solidifies K-pop's position on the world stage and celebrates the women leaders who are instrumental in its continued growth and innovation.
Originally published by Chosun Ilbo in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.