HYBE has officially launched ABD, a specialized label under HYBE Music Group APAC dedicated to girl group production. The move aligns with the company's multi-label strategy to advance K-pop production and secure diverse intellectual property for the global market.
Key Facts
- The label name "ABD" is an abbreviation of the slogan "A Bold Dream," representing a philosophy of "imagining D instead of C after A and B."
- Master Professional Han Sung-soo, producer for SEVENTEEN, After School, IZ*ONE, and TWS, will lead general production, including music, concepts, and performances.
- Noh Ji-won, formerly of MORE VISION and former head of artist planning at Pledis Entertainment, has been appointed CEO.
- The label aims to merge fan and artist insights with the "original joy of music."
- ABD will employ specialized personnel and systems to ensure autonomy in girl group production.
Key Terms
- HYBE Music Group APAC: The regional division of HYBE overseeing label ABD.
- Multi-label Strategy: HYBE's structure granting individual labels autonomy to foster diverse artist IPs.
Key Quote
"The establishment of ABD is a strategic move to secure IP diversity and further advance K-pop production capabilities. Through the new girl group, we will propose new musical attempts and concepts and create fresh changes in the global music market."
— HYBE official
Next
- ABD plans to debut its first rookie girl group in the second half of 2026.
- The label will focus on musical initiatives to expand K-pop's global reach.