SM Entertainment Developing K-Pop Superhero Animated Series
The company behind aespa and NCT is taking its elaborate artist universes into a new medium.
SM Entertainment is expanding into animation through a new partnership with SAMG Entertainment.
The companies have signed an agreement to co-produce Superhero Idol Project, a working title for an original 3D animated series combining K-pop-inspired world-building with superhero storytelling.
The series is currently planned as 13 episodes running approximately 20 minutes each. A worldwide streaming release is targeted for 2028, although the platform and exact premiere date have not been announced.
Aimed at audiences ranging from teenagers to viewers in their 20s and 30s, the project will blend music, action, and coming-of-age elements while incorporating intellectual property connected to SM artists.
SM Entertainment said the project will draw from its artist roster, including aespa, NCT 127 and RIIZE, as well as other acts under the company. The announcement did not specify whether the artists will appear as animated characters, contribute voice performances or participate through the soundtrack.
SM Entertainment will oversee the series' music, vocals, and performance-related elements. SAMG Entertainment brings experience from animated properties including Catch! Teenieping, Miniforce, and Metal Cardbot.
The companies also intend to develop the series beyond animation through music releases, concerts, artist management, video content, and character licensing. Production details, including the episode count and targeted 2028 release, remain subject to change as development continues.
