SM Entertainment’s Plans For The Start Of 2025 Trigger Heated Reactions

Some are delighted, some are not happy…

SM Entertainment recently unveiled its album release and concert schedule for the first quarter of 2025, and the company’s plans have sparked quite a conversation online. Fans were thrilled by announcements of upcoming releases from beloved artists, but certain planned activities also stirred up controversy.

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| @_imyour_joy/Instagram

The schedule revealed that NCT’s Mark and Ten, EXO’s Kai, and Red Velvet’s Seulgi are among the artists set to release new albums—ranging from mini-albums to full-length releases. Additionally, Girls’ Generation‘s Hyoyeon and NCT Wish will make their comebacks, while SM’s highly anticipated new girl group is finally edging closer to its debut.

Yet, some announcements didn’t sit well with fans. Lucas’s upcoming release and the mini album of virtual soloist Naevis, in particular, have sparked a mixed response.

sm building
| SM Entertainment

Lucas, who has been under scrutiny since his 2021 scandal, continues to be a controversial figure. Fans expressed disappointment at SM’s decision to include him in the schedule, questioning the company’s decision to keep managing the star.

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| @lucas_xx444/Instagram

Meanwhile, Naevis is set to release a mini-album, which has led some fans to question SM’s priorities due to her virtual nature. Many argue that the company should be focusing its resources on human artists within the SM roster, who, in their view, deserve more attention and opportunities.

Red Velvet fans, in particular, were vocal, especially about the lack of solo activities for members Yeri and Joy. While Wendy and soon Seulgi are each set to release their second solo projects, fans feel that Yeri has been left waiting too long for her official solo debut. There is also mounting anticipation for a second comeback from Joy, adding to the frustration of fans who feel these artists should be prioritized over virtual talent.

While SM Entertainment’s early 2025 plans have delighted many fans, they have also ignited a wave of disappointment and criticism. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen if SM will respond to these concerns in future announcements.

You can read the full schedule below:

SM Entertainment Divulges Future Plans For Its Artists — Including Some Big Surprises

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