SM, Tencent Music launch China joint venture with Super Junior-M’s Zhoumi as CEO

SM Entertainment, a K-pop powerhouse, and Tencent Music Entertainment (TME) have established a joint venture called STE to develop a new Chinese idol group within three years. Zhoumi, a member of Super Junior-M and CEO of STE, will oversee auditions and group management. The venture combines SM’s IP and content production expertise with TME’s market understanding to create tailored local content. STE will also support SM’s artists in Greater China, including NCT Dream’s Renjun and WayV’s Yangyang and Xiaojun, with localized promotions. The collaboration involves music production, promotions, merchandise, video content, and pop-up stores using SM’s IP for the Chinese market.