Beyond K-Pop: Meet 6 K-Pop Idols Who Are Now CEOs

The global phenomenon of K-Pop idols has not only captured hearts with its infectious melodies and mesmerizing performances but has also served as a launchpad for ambitious individuals to transcend the boundaries of the music industry.

Beyond the stage and the spotlight, a remarkable number of K-Pop idols have successfully transitioned into the world of entrepreneurship, donning the hat of CEOs and reshaping industries. 

We at The Daebak Company are utterly curious about it. Hence, we delve into the inspiring stories of six K-Pop idols who have seamlessly transitioned from the limelight to the boardroom.

Jessica Jung was one of the original Girl’s Generation members, which quickly became one of the most iconic and internationally recognized K-Pop idol groups. The band achieved immense success with hit songs like “Gee,” “Genie”, and “I Got a Boy”.

In 2014, Jessica left Girls’ Generation under controversial circumstances. Jessica and SM Entertainment's agency managing the group officially announced the departure. Her departure was cited as a conflict between her business endeavors and the group’s K-Pop idol schedule.

After departing Girl’s Generation, Jessica ventured into the fashion world, establishing her brand, BLANC & ECLARE. 

As the CEO and creative director, the K-Pop idol has crafted a global fashion empire, earning praise for her distinctive designs. Her journey exemplifies resilience and determination, proving that reinvention is the key to sustained success.

The brand started with eyewear, featuring sunglasses and optical frames. Over time, BLANC & ECLARE expanded its product range to include denim, skincare, and various fashion accessories. The brand is known for its clean lines, neutral color palette, and modern designs.

Jessica positioned BLANC & ECLARE as an international brand with a global appeal. The products are available in South Korea and other parts of Asia, North America, Europe, and online for worldwide shipping. The global approach reflects the K-Pop idol’s desire to reach a diverse audience.

BLANC & ECLARE has flagship stores in key cities worldwide, including Seoul, New York, Shanghai, and Beijing. These physical stores allow customers to experience the brand’s products firsthand and immerse themselves in the BLANC & ECLARE lifestyle.

In 2006, G-Dragon debuted as a member of BIGBANG under YG Entertainment. 

BIGBANG quickly rose to fame, becoming one of the most successful and internationally acclaimed K-Pop idol groups. G-Dragon’s role as the leader and main songwriter contributed significantly to the group’s success.

G-Dragon has established himself as a fashion trendsetter and style icon. His bold and avant-garde fashion choices have garnered attention both within and outside the K-Pop idol industry. In 2016, he collaborated with the Italian luxury brand Giuseppe Zanotti to create a line of exclusive footwear.

The brand’s name, “PEACEMINUSONE,” is a play on the phrase “Peace minus one”, suggesting a world where peace has not yet been achieved. G-Dragon launched the brand as an extension of his creative endeavors and influence in the fashion industry.

PEACEMINUSONE has collaborated with renowned brands and artists, further elevating its status in fashion. Notable collaborations include partnerships with Nike for a special edition Air Force 1 sneaker and with Ambush for a jewelry collection.

The brand reflects G-Dragon’s creative vision and his passion for pushing boundaries in the fashion world. The brand’s success is a testament to G-Dragon’s influence and the evolving role of K-pop idols as tastemakers and cultural icons beyond the music industry.

PEACEMINUSONE reflects G-Dragon’s creative vision and his passion for punching boundaries in the fashion world. The brand’s success is a testament to G-Dragon’s influence and the evolving role of K-Pop idols as tastemakers and cultural icons beyond the music industry.

Sunmi, whose full name is Sunmi Lee, is a South Korean singer, songwriter, and former member of the popular girl group Wonder Girls. 

Born on May 2, 1992, in Iksan, South Korea, Sunmi has garnered attention for her distinct musical style, captivating stage presence, and contributions to the K-Pop idol industry.

In 2010, Sunmi temporarily left Wonder Girls to focus on her academic pursuits. However, she triumphantly returned to the entertainment scene in 2013, marketing the beginning of her solo career.

Sunmi’s solo debut came with the single “24 Hours” in 2013, which showcased a more mature and edgy image. She followed up with the release of “Full Moon”, solidifying her position as a solo artist with a unique musical style.

MAKEUS Entertainment was founded by former JYP Entertainment producer Park Jin-young, also known as J.Y.Park. The company aims to provide a creative and artist-friendly environment for its talents. 

Sunmi joined MAKEUS Entertainment, and in addition to her role as a recording artist, she has taken on the position of CEO of the subsidiary label under MAKEUS Entertainment.

In 2021, MakeUs Entertainment acquired the talent agency Abyss Company, which was home to former 2NE1 member Sandara Park and GOT7 member BamBam. As a result of the acquisition, Sandara Park and BamBam transferred to MakeUs Entertainment.

Sunmi’s involvement as a CEO reflects a growing trend of K-Pop idols taking on entrepreneurial roles within the entertainment industry. As a CEO, she is involved in decision-making processes, supporting emerging artists, and contributing to the overall direction of the label.

MAKEUS Entertainment is now known as ABYSS Company, and its current artists are:

• Urban Zakapa (2016-present) - K-Pop idol ballad group consisting of Kwon Soonil, Jo Hyun-ah, and Park Yong-in.
• Sunmi (2017-present) - Solo singer-songwriter known for her catchy pop songs and powerful vocals.
• Bambam (2021-present) - Thai rapper, singer, and member of the K-Pop idol boy group GOT7.
• Sandara Park (2021-present) - South Korean singer, actress, and former K-Pop idol girl group 2NE1 member.
• Jukjae (2023-present) - Korean singer-songwriter known for his soulful ballads and R&B-infused music.

Like many Korean entertainment companies, ABYSS Company has shown interest in global expansion. The company aims to reach a wider international audience and has engaged in activities to promote its artists on the global stage.

PSY, whose real name is Park Jae-sang, is a South Korean singer, songwriter, record producer, and performer who gained global fame with his viral hit “Gangnam Style”. 

Born on December 31, 1977, PSY is recognized for his energetic stage presence, humorous lyrics, and contributions to the global popularity of K-Pop idols.
 

PSY became an international sensation with the release of “Gangnam Style”, in July 2012. The song’s catchy tune, humorous lyrics, and iconic horse-riding dance quickly went viral, turning PSY into a global K-Pop idol phenomenon. “Gangnam Style” became the first YouTube video to reach one billion reviews.

PSY’s success contributed significantly to the global popularity of K-Pop. “Gangnam Style” opened doors for Korean artists to reach a broader audience, and PSY became a cultural ambassador for K-Pop idols worldwide.

PSY officially launched P Nation in January 2019. The company’s vision is to foster an environment where artists can freely express their creativity and pursue their artistic goals. PSY’s own experiences in the industry, coupled with his desire to support emerging talents, influenced the establishment of P Nation.

P Nation's artists have released a number of successful songs, including Psy's "Gangnam Style" and "Daddy," Crush's "Beautiful," and Heize's "We Don't Talk Together."

Current artists

• PSY (2019-present)
• Crush (2019-present)
• Heize (2020-present)
• PENOMECO (2021-present)
• Swings (2021-present)
• An Shin-ae (2021-present)

Under the K-Pop idol artist’s leadership, the brand has expressed aspirations for global success. The company seeks to make an impact in the South Korean entertainment industry and contribute to the global cultural landscape.

One of the key principles of P Nation is to provide artists with creative freedom and support for their artistic expressions. The emphasis on artistic autonomy aligns with PSY’s experiences and philosophy as an artist.

Jay Park, whose real name is Park Jae-beom, is a Korean-American singer, rapper, dancer, songwriter, record producer, and entrepreneur. 

Born on April 25, 1987, in the USA, Jay Park initially gained fame as the leader of the K-Pop idol boy group 2PM. However, he left the group due to controversies and went on to establish himself as a successful solo artist and entrepreneur.

After leaving 2PM, the K-Pop idol returned to the United States and pursued a solo career. In 2010, he signed with SidusHQ and released his debut mini-album titled “Take a Deeper Look.” The album was well-received, marking the beginning of his solo success.

Jay Park has explored acting, appearing in films such as “Hype Nation 3D” and television dramas like “Justice” and “Hotel Del Luna”. His foray into acting showcases his diverse talents.

AOMG (Art of Movement) is a South Korean hip-hop and R&B record label founded in 2013 by rapper and singer-songwriter Jay Park. The label houses a diverse roster of artists, including rappers, singers, producers, and DJs. AOMG is known for its unique and innovative approach to music, and its artists have garnered critical acclaim and commercial success.

The K-Pop idol wanted to create a label that would foster creativity and allow artists to express themselves without being bound by traditional industry norms. AOMG is based on the concept of "Art of Movement," which represents the idea of being free to move and express oneself without limitations.

AOMG's roster of artists includes some of the most respected and influential figures in the Korean hip-hop and R&B industry. Some of the label's most notable artists include:

• Jay Park: The founder and CEO of AOMG, Jay Park is a rapper, singer, songwriter, and producer who is considered one of the most successful Korean hip-hop artists of all time.
• Gray: A rapper, singer, songwriter, and producer, the K-Pop idol is known for his smooth vocals and soulful melodies.
• Loco: A rapper, singer, and songwriter, Loco is known for his unique style and ability to switch seamlessly between rapping and singing.

• Simon D: A rapper, singer, songwriter, and producer, Simon D is one of the most respected figures in the Korean hip-hop scene.
• pH-1: A rapper, singer, songwriter, and producer, pH-1 is known for his unique flow and ability to blend different genres of music.
• Code Kunst: A producer, songwriter, and DJ, Code Kunst is known for his innovative production style and ability to blend electronic music with hip-hop and R&B.

Jennie Kim, widely known as Jennie, is a South Korean singer, rapper, and member of the popular K-Pop idol girl group BLACKPINK. 

Born on January 16, 1996, in Seoul, South Korea, Jennie has gained recognition for her versatile talents, captivating stage presence, and stylish image.

In BLACKPINK, Jennie is recognized as the main rapper, but she is also known for her strong vocals as a K-Pop idol. Her skills as a rapper and singer contribute to the group’s dynamic sound. Jennie has also showcased her versatility in various genres, adding depth to BLACKPINK’s discography.

OA, which stands for ODD ATELIER, is a label founded by K-Pop idol Blackpink member Jennie in November 2023. 

The label aims to create new and innovative content that goes beyond the boundaries of conventional expectations. Jennie's vision for OA is to foster a space where artists can express their individuality and pursue their creative passions without limitations.

Jennie's decision to establish her own label marks an exciting new chapter in her career. It reflects her ambition to expand her creative horizons and explore new avenues of artistic expression. OA provides the K-Pop idol with the freedom to pursue her vision and collaborate with artists who share her passion for innovation and creativity.

Although in its early stages, OA has already made significant strides in the industry. The label has signed several talented K-Pop idols, including Ahyeon Baemon and Hwasa Mamamoo, and plans to release diverse content, including music, fashion, and art.

Jennie's establishment of OA has been met with widespread enthusiasm from fans and industry insiders alike. Her vision for the label aligns with the growing desire for originality and authenticity in the music and entertainment industry. OA is poised to become a significant force in the industry, challenging the status quo and paving the way for a new era of creative expression.

Beyond the glittering stage and adoring fans, these K-Pop idols have proven that their talents extend far beyond music. 

Through determination, innovation, and a fearless pursuit of their passions, they have successfully transitioned into the demanding role of CEOs, leaving an indelible mark on industries ranging from entertainment to fashion. 

Their stories inspire not only K-Pop idol enthusiasts but anyone with dreams of breaking boundaries and redefining success on their own terms.

Some fans find inspiration in their idol’s entrepreneurial journeys. Witnessing their favorite idols take on leadership roles encourages fans to pursue their own aspirations whether in the entertainment industry or other fields. At The Daebak Company, we highly recommend you follow your dreams as these incredible K-Pop idols do!