The Black Label: Backing A Founder’s Vision, Before the World Could See It
At Saehan Ventures, we invest in visionaries—not just ventures. In 2021, when we made the bold decision to acquire a 28% stake in The Black Label, it wasn’t a reaction to market trends. It was the result of deep conviction—conviction in a founder’s ability to reshape an entire industry, and in our own ability to recognize that potential before it becomes consensus.
Founded in 2016 by the legendary Teddy Park, The Black Label was created with a clear purpose: to build a studio-driven, artist-first company that breaks from the traditional entertainment mold. Teddy, who rose to international acclaim as the producer behind Big Bang, 2NE1, and BLACKPINK, had long been the creative engine of K-pop’s most iconic acts. His artistic fingerprints helped launch a global phenomenon—and when he set out to build his own label, we knew something transformative was on the horizon.
That early insight and trust became action. Saehan backed The Black Label when it was still a bold new idea. Our support was not limited to capital—we helped secure its new headquarters in Hannam-dong, a move that signaled The Black Label’s evolution into a fully independent powerhouse with a distinct identity and global ambitions.
The results have been extraordinary. The label has become home to some of Korea’s most influential and respected artists. From Taeyang—a cornerstone of K-pop history—to solo standout Jeon Somi, and most recently BLACKPINK’s Rosé, who chose The Black Label to guide her individual career, the roster reflects both trust in the founder and a future-facing artistic vision. In 2024, The Black Label debuted its first girl group, Meovv, marking a new chapter—one shaped by a blend of experience, edge, and originality.
And in 2025, The Black Label once again challenged expectations with the debut of All Day Project, a co-ed idol group—a format nearly unheard of in K-pop for over 30 years. From day one, the group generated explosive response across platforms, not just for its music but for what it represented: a fresh, genre-bending approach that defied long-held conventions. The mix of male and female members, each with strong individual identities and synergy as a team, signaled The Black Label’s readiness to write the next chapter of K-pop history—with boldness, instinct, and creative risk-taking.
We believe this story exemplifies Saehan’s strength: we identify generational talent early and stand beside founders with the capacity to lead global movements. For founders, it shows that we are more than investors—we are partners who believe, commit, and contribute in meaningful, strategic ways.
At Saehan, we don’t wait for proof. We move with conviction. And in The Black Label, we saw not just a company—but a cultural catalyst. The journey is just beginning.