Inside the Im Siwan SM THE BLACK LABEL Management Strategy: A Tale of Two Giants

It's a rare sight in the Korean entertainment industry to see two major powerhouses managing a single star. Actor and singer Im Siwan has broken the mold by partnering with SM Entertainment for his music and THE BLACK LABEL for his acting career, creating what he calls a "grand merger."

The Logic Behind Im Siwan SM THE BLACK LABEL Management

Appearing on the web show 'Salon Drip 2' on January 13, 2026, Im Siwan explained that he signed with SM about one year ago specifically to reconnect with fans through music. Later, he joined THE BLACK LABEL to focus on his acting projects. This unique setup means managers from both agencies often attend his schedules simultaneously, ensuring top-tier support for both facets of his career.

Trusting the 'Seasoned Experts' for 'The Reason'

Discussing his latest music release, the title track 'The Reason', Im Siwan noted his humble approach. He intentionally chose to listen rather than lead, stating, "I felt that these weren't just experts, but seasoned experts." This mindset allowed the album to reach a quality level far beyond his initial modest intentions.