Gamma., Kakao Entertainment and SM Entertainment have formed a strategic global alliance to launch British boy group dearALICE, the companies jointly announced on Tuesday (November 26). The pact will include global distribution in the US, UK and Korea/APAC, along with label services across A&R, production, marketing, promotion, brand sponsorships and global business development.
The formation of dearALICE was chronicled in the six-part BBC One series Made in Korea: The K-Pop Experiencewhich was produced by Kakao, SM and British production company Moon&Back Media (The X Factor, Britain's Got Talent). The show followed the group's five UK members – Blaise Noon, Dexter Greenwood, James Sharp, Oliver (Olly) Quinn and Reese Carter – as they embarked on a 100-day K-pop-style training program at SM. An original soundtrack album from the show was also released.
The parties gathered in Los Angeles to finalize the deal. Attendees are included Larry Jacksonco-founder/CEO at gamma.? Joseph Changco-CEO at Kakao Entertainment and CEO at SM & Kakao Entertainment America; Jung Min ChoiChief Development Officer at SM Entertainment. Kevin NishimuraCOO at SM & Kakao Entertainment; Ben Cookchairman of the UK and Europe at gamma.? Russ Lindsayco-founder of Moon&Back Media; and the five beloved members of ALICE.
dearALICE is set to release his official debut single by the end of this year.
“I have discovered that it is a superpower in life to embrace the truth of 'I know what I don't know.' I've always been interested in the music and culture that comes out of South Korea, and now I'm working with Kakao Entertainment and SM Entertainment on dearALICE affords gamma. an opportunity to learn from the BEST in this culture,” Jackson said in a statement. “We already find a special creative affinity with Joseph, Kevin and their teams. Our ideas are very aligned, although they are supported by different life experiences, from different corners of the planet.”
Jackson continued, “The genius behind creating this show, which premiered on the BBC in the UK, and bringing this extremely talented group to the world through it, was their idea and we're thrilled to be a part of it. Kakao Entertainment and SM have always been purveyors of true, patient artist development in Korea, and I have deeply respected their approach from afar. Expect to hear a lot from dearALICE in 2025.”
“Our collaboration with gamma. represents an exciting step in our ongoing strategy to successfully launch dearALICE,” said Chang. “Partnering with a company of gamma.'s prestige, known for its deep industry expertise and innovative approach, allows us to accelerate our efforts to bring dearALICE to audiences worldwide. dearALICE stands out as a truly special project for our company, combining its British roots with the global reach and creative influences of Kakao Entertainment and SM Entertainment. We believe this partnership will unlock new opportunities for the band to thrive internationally, while showcasing their groundbreaking artistry to music lovers around the world.”
Added Lindsay, “What an amazing twelve months it's been for the boys! From being cast in December last year, to experiencing a unique and unforgettable 100-day K-pop training experience with SM Entertainment in Korea, after a 6-part Saturday night TV series premiered on BBC One in the summer, followed by the Made in Korea: The K-Pop Experience Original TV Soundtrack EP release and outstanding live performance on the UK's highest rated entertainment show, BBC One Strictly come and dance! It's a testament to their incredible hard work and passion to see them sign a major global recording and distribution deal with gamma., joining a stable of some of the world's most talented artists and music executives.”
from our partners at https://www.billboard.com/pro/k-pop-labels-kakao-sm-team-gamma-launch-boy-band-dearalice/
