Soprano Sumi Jo Signs SM Classics' First Exclusive Recording Contract

by Lee Yiseul

Published 21 Apr.2026 13:25(KST)

40th Anniversary Album "Continuum" to Be Released in May

Sumi Jo. Provided by Kim Youngjun of SM Entertainment

SM Classics, the classical and jazz label of SM Entertainment, announced on April 21 that it has signed an exclusive recording contract with soprano Sumi Jo for the production of albums and digital music.

This marks the first time that SM Classics has signed an exclusive recording artist. Through this collaboration, Sumi Jo plans to expand her diverse musical career to a global audience. As her first project, she will release her 40th anniversary album, "Continuum," in May.

The new album "Continuum" features a repertoire of 11 tracks, encapsulating Sumi Jo's 40-year musical journey. The album includes collaborations with both Korean and international musicians such as Yiruma, Park Jonghoon, Kim Jinhwan, Choi Jin, Ko Younghwan, Yoon Jaeun, and Takatsugu Muramatsu. Sumi Jo expressed her intention to continue challenging the boundaries between classical heritage and contemporary sensibility.

To accelerate its global expansion, SM Classics is launching its second phase by appointing Cho Heekyung, who has experience with global record labels, as its new CEO. Under the motto "Classical Heritage, Modern Soul," CEO Cho plans to promote the globalization of Korean artists in classical, crossover, and jazz genres.

Sumi Jo will continue with a large-scale project alongside the album release. Following her performances in London, UK and New York, USA last month, she will embark on a nationwide tour in May, with concerts scheduled in Seoul, Changwon, Bucheon, and Yongin.

In July, Sumi Jo will host the 2nd Sumi Jo International Vocal Competition in France, aiming to discover the next generation of artists and broaden the reach of classical music.