Soprano Sumi Jo Signs Exclusive Recording Contract With SM Classics

SM Entertainment is expanding its SM Classics roster as it broadens its global presence in the classical music market. Grammy Award-winning soprano Sumi Jo has signed as an exclusive artist with SM Classics. SM Entertainment’s classical and jazz label.

As the first South Korean to win a Grammy Award for Best Opera Recording in 1993 for her work in Richard Strauss: Die Frau ohne Schatten, she has been recognized globally as one of the greatest sopranos of her generation. Through her partnership with SM Classics, Jo’s future recordings will be developed and released worldwide, reaching a wider audience.

“With Sumi Jo’s signing, we are taking a meaningful step toward building a globally competitive classical label rooted in Korean artistry,” Hee-kyung Jo, CEO of SM Classics, said in a press release. “SM Classics will continue investing in world-class talent and developing innovative projects that expand the reach of classical music worldwide.”

She is set to release her 40th-anniversary special album, Continuum, in May, commemorating four decades since her international debut. With 11 tracks, Jo is featured with renowned composers including Yiruma, Jong-Hoon Park, Jin-hwan Kim, Jin Choi, Young-hwan Ko, Ja-eun Yoon, and Takatsugu Muramatsu. Conducted by Young-sun Choi and performed by the Bucheon Philharmonic Orchestra, the album also includes a duet with SUHO and a guest appearance by famed violinist and composer, Danny Koo.

“This album represents both the culmination of a long journey and the beginning of a new chapter,” says Jo. “My music has never remained in one place—it continues to evolve toward new possibilities. I wanted to create a work that honors classical heritage while embracing modern artistic expression. Continuum brings together some of the most technically demanding coloratura repertoire I’ve yet to record, alongside works by contemporary composers. It bridges classical heritage with a modern sensibility, exploring new artistic directions rather than staying within the familiar. That spirit is at the heart of how I approach music.”

Beyond the album release, Jo will embark on a nationwide Korean tour in May and will host her second Sumi Jo International Vocal Competition at Château de la Ferté-Imbault in France in July.

Sumi Jo’s Continuum will be released on May 8.