Complete List of South Korean Record Labels: K-Pop Companies & Music Labels Guide
I've compiled a comprehensive list of South Korean record labels, categorizing them by their size and industry influence. As someone who's extensively researched the Korean music industry, I'll share the most significant labels that shape K-pop and Korean music today.
Major Entertainment Companies:
• SM Entertainment - Home to groups like EXO, Red Velvet, and NCT
• JYP Entertainment - Houses TWICE, Stray Kids, and ITZY
• YG Entertainment - Manages BLACKPINK, TREASURE, and WINNER
• HYBE Labels (formerly Big Hit) - Parent company of:
- Big Hit Music (BTS, TXT)
- Source Music (LE SSERAFIM)
- PLEDIS Entertainment (SEVENTEEN)
- BELIFT LAB (ENHYPEN)
- KOZ Entertainment
- ADOR (NewJeans)
Mid-Tier Entertainment Companies:
• Cube Entertainment - (G)I-DLE, PENTAGON • FNC Entertainment - SF9, P1Harmony • Starship Entertainment - IVE, MONSTA X • RBW Entertainment - MAMAMOO, ONEUS • IST Entertainment - The Boyz, APINK • WM Entertainment - OH MY GIRL • Woollim Entertainment - GOLDEN CHILD • DSP Media - KARD, MIRAE
Independent and Smaller Labels:
• AOMG - Jay Park's hip-hop label • H1GHR MUSIC - Focus on hip-hop artists • P NATION - PSY's entertainment company • Brand New Music - BNM BOYS, AB6IX • Antenna - Popular for indie artists • Magic Strawberry Sound - Indie focus • Stone Music Entertainment • MNH Entertainment • TOP Media • Jellyfish Entertainment
Distribution-Focused Labels:
• Kakao Entertainment • Genie Music • Stone Music Entertainment • NHN Entertainment • CJ E&M
These labels constantly evolve through mergers, acquisitions, and new establishments. Many smaller labels often partner with larger companies for distribution and promotion. The Korean music industry is dynamic, with new labels emerging regularly to meet the growing global demand for K-pop and Korean music.
Notable Features:
• Most major labels operate training systems for developing artists • Many have subsidiary labels for different music genres • Several are publicly traded companies • International partnerships are common • Many offer comprehensive artist management services
This list includes the most active and influential labels, though there are many more smaller companies operating in South Korea's vibrant music industry. The landscape continues to evolve as the Korean wave (Hallyu) expands globally.