Soprano Sumi Jo Signs Exclusive Recording Deal With SM Entertainment, Prepares 40th Anniversary Album ‘Continuum’

Soprano Sumi Jo has joined hands with SM Entertainment, signing an exclusive contract for album and music production.

On April 21, SM Entertainment announced that Sumi Jo has become the first recording-exclusive artist under its classical label, SM Classics, through this agreement.

An exclusive recording artist contract is a format commonly used by major global labels. It focuses on collaboration in album planning, recording, and distribution.

Under this partnership with SM Classics, Sumi Jo will receive full-scale support in album and music production.

The first result of the deal will be the release of her new album. Sumi Jo is set to unveil her special 40th anniversary album 'Continuum' next month.

She described the album as “the culmination of a long journey and, at the same time, a new beginning,” adding that it features new music, including technically demanding coloratura arias.

She continued, “Breaking down the boundaries between classical tradition and modern sensibilities, and continuously challenging myself toward new music, is my true approach to music.”

'Continuum' is an album that spans Sumi Jo’s past, present, and future, containing a total of 11 tracks. Both domestic and international composers participated, including Yiruma and Park Jong Hoon.

Conductor Choi Young Sun led the Bucheon Philharmonic Orchestra for the project. The album also features a duet with Suho of EXO, as well as a contribution from violinist Danny Koo, enhancing its overall quality.

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