SM Entertainment has officially opened SM Universe Singapore, marking the company’s first K-pop training academy outside South Korea and a major step in expanding its global talent development pipeline.
Located along Orchard Road at *SCAPE, SM Universe Singapore first soft-launched in June 2025 and has since rolled out more than 70 programmes, training over 600 students from more than 10 countries. The academy is designed to provide aspiring performers with early exposure to professional K-pop training, covering core disciplines such as vocals, dance, performance, and music production.
In January 2026, SM Universe Singapore introduced its flagship professional training programme, a selective 10-week course aimed at students looking to pursue careers in the entertainment industry. The programme culminates in a one-week enrichment experience at SM Universe Seoul, where participants are given opportunities to audition for Korean entertainment agencies.
The academy’s official launch on 24 January highlighted its broader cultural and creative significance. Minister for Law Edwin Tong spoke at the event, underscoring Singapore’s commitment to nurturing creative talent and strengthening pathways for young artists to access global opportunities. RIIZE’s Anton and Sohee were also in attendance, having been in Singapore for their concert, and joined the opening ceremony as part of SM Entertainment’s artist roster.
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Industry leaders from both SM Universe Singapore and SM Entertainment were also present, reflecting the collaborative effort behind the academy’s establishment and its role in connecting local talent with international expertise.
With SM Universe Singapore now open, aspiring performers across Southeast Asia have access to a world-class platform that brings K-pop training closer to home, offering a structured pathway into one of the world’s most influential music industries.
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