Sungmin begins trot music journey with a bold move just a day after leaving SM Entertainment. On Thursday, Totalset announced its exclusive contract with the Super Junior member. Therefore, this new partnership signals a serious commitment to his growing presence in the trot music scene. Moreover, Totalset plans to support him fully as he builds his identity as a trot singer. Consequently, Sungmin expressed confidence in his decision and excitement about the road ahead.
Sungmin began exploring trot music in 2022 through a popular competition show. Specifically, he gained attention on TV Chosun’s second season of “Mr. Trot,” where he showcased vocal strength and stage charisma. Later, he followed up by releasing “Lovesick,” his official debut trot single, in 2023. That track, in turn, revealed his deep emotional connection to the genre and widened his musical range. As a result, Sungmin begins trot music journey with increasing recognition and growing fan interest.
Earlier this year, he returned with another single titled “Yo. Yo. Yo.” and cemented his new artistic direction. Importantly, the release displayed not just his vocal abilities but his performance style tailored to trot audiences. Additionally, he said he truly loves the genre and hopes to bring joyful energy through his music. According to him, Totalset offers the right environment to grow and learn. Thus, Sungmin begins trot music journey with passion and strong professional backing.
Meanwhile, his former agency, SM Entertainment, issued a statement wishing him well. The company, notably, thanked him for over 20 years of dedication, from trainee to global artist. Furthermore, SM said they will continue to support his musical path in the future. Their message, in particular, highlighted Sungmin’s long-standing contribution to Super Junior and K-pop as a whole. Ultimately, his exit marked the end of a major chapter in his career.
Fans reacted with excitement and curiosity about what lies ahead for the veteran idol. In fact, many praised his courage to start anew in a genre rarely explored by idols. Moreover, others appreciated the agency’s willingness to invest in his unique vision. Interestingly, trot music has seen a resurgence in Korea, attracting younger audiences and crossover artists. Hence, Sungmin begins trot music journey at a time when the genre is gaining new life.
Totalset’s CEO also voiced strong support for their newest artist. The agency firmly believes Sungmin can become a standout figure in trot thanks to his skills and experience. Accordingly, they plan to craft opportunities that showcase his vocal power and stage presence. The goal, therefore, is to build a lasting career rooted in trot while exploring fresh creative ideas. Undoubtedly, Sungmin begins trot music journey with both artistic passion and strategic guidance.
As his schedule takes shape, Sungmin plans more releases and live appearances tailored to trot fans. To that end, his team will focus on crafting content that reflects his evolving musical identity. He aims, for instance, to blend his K-pop roots with the emotional depth of traditional Korean sounds. Furthermore, this new chapter also opens doors for collaborations with other trot singers and producers. Thus, Sungmin begins trot music journey determined to carve out a unique space for himself.
His story adds to a growing trend of idols expanding into different genres later in their careers. While some stay in pop or acting, others like Sungmin seek challenges that reflect their personal growth. Nevertheless, he remains grateful for the past but focused on his future in music. With Totalset behind him, his next moves could redefine his legacy. Ultimately, Sungmin begins trot music journey ready to inspire a new wave of fans.
