SM Entertainment’s classical and jazz label SM Classics has successfully concluded its first-ever orchestra concert in celebration of SM’s 30th anniversary.
“SM CLASSICS LIVE 2025 with Seoul Philharmonic Orchestra” was held on February 14 at the Seoul Arts Center’s Concert Hall and on February 15 at Lotte Concert Hall. The concert featured orchestral renditions of SM’s hit songs by the Seoul Philharmonic, one of Asia’s top orchestras that is celebrating its 80th anniversary and 20th year since becoming an incorporated foundation this year.
Making it the world’s first-ever K-pop orchestra concert, SM CLASSICS LIVE 2025, held in Korea’s classical music hub, celebrated the K-pop pioneer’s 30th anniversary, in addition to highlighting SM Classics’ journey in orchestrating SM’s signature tracks since its launch in 2020.
The concert began with an opening narration by SHINee’s MINHO, followed by “Welcome To SMCU Palace” to symbolize a grand entry into the classical musical world. The event featured a seamless blend of songs by SM artists—from BoA, TVXQ!, SUPER JUNIOR, GIRLS’ GENERATION, SHINee, EXO, Red Velvet, NCT, aespa and RIIZE—alongside pieces by classical masters such as Vivaldi, Bach, Beethoven, Elgar and Rachmaninoff. The 83-member orchestra’s majestic performance transcended time and genre, offering the audience a unique and deeply moving experience.
The February 14 performance featured immersive visual effects, elevating the audience experience. On February 15, Red Velvet’s WENDY took the stage with conductor Yuwon Kim and the Seoul Philharmonic for a special collaboration, delivering moving performances of “Like Water,” “When This Rain Stops” and “Vermilion.”
The concert concluded with a special orchestral arrangement of “Hope,” featuring elements of Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 (“Choral”). This powerful finale embodied SM’s vision of music that transcends time, uniting classical and contemporary sounds.
SM Classics CEO Jay JungJae Moon said, “We have long anticipated the opportunity to present SM Classics in a live orchestral setting. With this successful debut, we look forward to bringing SM Classics performances to audiences worldwide.” Seoul Philharmonic Orchestra CEO Jung Jae-wal added, “It has been a privilege to showcase the results of our five-year collaboration with SM Entertainment. We are proud to deliver a concert that both classical and K-pop fans can enjoy.”
Following this event, SM Classics plans on expanding its concert and sheet music licensing business, further sharing its original orchestral works with global audiences.
Behind the Scenes